GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The World Health Organization (WHO) has published updated guidance aimed at reducing heat-related health issues during mass gatherings around the world. These recommendations target major sporting, religious, and cultural events. They focus on risks faced by spectators, attendees, volunteers, and staff exposed to extended periods of high temperatures. An extensive review of evidence revealed nearly 500,000 medical encounters at mass gatherings in studies published from 1980 through 2025, with over 22,000 cases involving heat-related illnesses.
The analysis showed that well-organized medical services at event sites can treat most cases without requiring hospital transfers. When event organizers have comprehensive on-site medical systems in place, more than 90% of patients can receive treatment at the venue. This strategy helps to ease the burden on local hospitals and ambulance services. These insights are part of a comprehensive toolkit provided to governments, organizers, and health authorities. The package combines research findings with practical tools for evaluating and managing heat risks both before and during large-scale events.
According to the guidance, heat-related fatalities have risen by an estimated 63% since the 1990s. Between 2012 and 2021, an average of 546,000 heat-related deaths was recorded annually. Overcrowded conditions can heighten exposure when people spend prolonged periods outdoors in extreme heat. Factors like limited access to water, restricted movement, and travel-related stress can further elevate these risks. Additionally, the high demand on health services can complicate medical response efforts during large events.
Integrating heat risk management into event planning and operations
The new guidance advocates for providing accessible drinking water, sufficient sanitation facilities, and cooling infrastructure at venues. It emphasizes the importance of adjusting schedules, improving crowd management, and implementing protective measures for event staff. Organizers are encouraged to incorporate public communication strategies, real-time health surveillance, and ready medical services into their planning processes. WHO stresses that heat protection should be a comprehensive component of event management rather than relying primarily on individual actions. Aspects like venue design, transportation, security, and sanitation all influence access to cooling and medical assistance.
The package of resources includes systematic reviews, an implementation manual, and a dedicated heat-risk assessment tool. It also offers materials for creating evidence-based public messages during periods of elevated heat. The assessment tool facilitates structured and repeatable evaluations before and during events. The overall framework encompasses preparation, impact mitigation, and recovery phases. Organizers can integrate these measures with existing emergency protocols, occupational safety standards, and national heat-health action plans.
Supporting early heat precautions with scientific evidence
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has determined that hot extremes are becoming more frequent and intense across most land regions since the 1950s. Rising temperatures add pressure to public health, especially during outdoor gatherings or crowded environments. Vulnerable groups such as older adults, individuals with chronic health conditions, and those engaged in physical activity are at higher risk. Workers and volunteers may also spend extended periods outdoors while providing security, transportation, medical, or logistical support.
The guidance frames heat management as part of broader public health and emergency preparedness strategies for mass gatherings. It urges authorities and organizers to assess conditions continuously throughout the event cycle and coordinate health measures with operational planning. These measures are applicable to diverse gatherings, including international sports competitions, festivals, and religious events. The framework emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and on-site care while supporting existing national systems for heat health, emergency response, and clinical management.