GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The World Health Organization (WHO) has published new technical guidance aimed at reducing heat-related health issues at large-scale gatherings globally. These recommendations target prominent sporting, religious, and cultural events. They specifically address the hazards faced by spectators, attendees, volunteers, and workers who are exposed to extended periods of high temperatures. An extensive review of evidence identified nearly 500,000 medical encounters at mass gatherings in studies published from 1980 through 2025, with over 22,000 of those cases involving heat-related illnesses.
The analysis revealed that well-organized medical services at event sites can manage most health incidents without the need for hospital transfers. When organizers establish comprehensive on-site medical systems, more than 90% of patients receive treatment directly at the venue. This strategy helps alleviate the burden on nearby hospitals and ambulance services. The findings are part of a broader set of resources provided for governments, organizers, and health authorities, combining research insights with practical tools to assess and mitigate heat risks before and during major events.
According to the guidance, heat-related fatalities have risen by an estimated 63% since the 1990s. On average, there were 546,000 deaths annually from heat between 2012 and 2021. Crowds in dense gatherings can increase exposure because individuals often spend long stretches outdoors under intense heat. Additional risks include limited access to water, constrained movement, and stress from travel. The high demand for health services can further complicate medical responses during such events.
Heat risk management becomes integral to event operations
The guidance emphasizes the importance of providing accessible drinking water, sufficient sanitation facilities, and cooling infrastructure at venues. It also recommends adjusting event schedules, enhancing crowd management, and implementing protective measures for staff working during heat events. Organizers are encouraged to incorporate public communication strategies, real-time health monitoring, and prepared medical services into their planning. WHO stresses that heat safety measures should be incorporated throughout the entire event rather than relying solely on individual actions. Factors such as venue layout, transportation, security, and sanitation play critical roles in ensuring access to cooling and medical care.
This new package features systematic reviews, an implementation guide, and a specialized heat-risk assessment tool. It also offers resources for crafting evidence-based public messages during periods of high heat. The assessment tool facilitates structured and repeatable evaluations both before and during events. The comprehensive framework addresses preparation, impact mitigation, and recovery stages. Organizers can align these measures with existing emergency protocols, occupational safety standards, and national heat-health action plans.
Scientific evidence underpins the need for proactive heat precautions
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified an increase in the frequency and severity of hot extremes across most land regions since the 1950s. Elevated temperatures impose additional health risks when large groups gather outdoors or in crowded environments. Vulnerable populations such as older adults, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those engaged in physical activity face elevated dangers. Workers and volunteers, often outside for extended durations while providing security, transport, medical, or logistical support, are also at heightened risk.
The guidance integrates heat management into broader public health and emergency preparedness efforts for mass gatherings. It urges authorities and organizers to continuously assess conditions throughout the event lifecycle and coordinate health safety measures with operational planning. These recommendations are applicable to various types and sizes of gatherings, including international sporting events, festivals, and religious ceremonies. The framework advocates for prevention, early intervention, and onsite care while supporting existing national systems for heat health, emergency response, and clinical management.