Abstract
Climate monitoring, risk assessment, early warning and natural long-term sustainable solutions are needed to comprehensively address and manage heatwaves and their implications for human health and vulnerability challenges. The research examined methods to assess and manage heatwave-related risks, and nature-based solutions (NBS), including green and blue infrastructures, were emphasised for urban cooling. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical analysis aided vulnerability mapping, while thermal comfort assessment relied on mortality and meteorological data sources. The intricate connection between heatwaves and health risks was studied through distributed lag non-linear model, demonstrating the risk of extreme temperatures on mortality in studied sites of the UK, emphasising the importance of sustained vigilance and management. The research also explored population vulnerability during heatwaves utilising census data to create a Heat Vulnerability Index via principal component analysis, revealing interconnected socio-economic factors that necessitate targeted interventions. The research also sheds light on public perceptions and responses to heatwaves. Survey data from various UK regions highlighted individual behaviours, concerns, and the crucial role of green spaces in mitigating heat-related issues. Lastly, NBS like green and blue infrastructure were examined for heatwave management. By monitoring air temperatures over extended periods, the cooling benefits of different NBS types were quantified. The study underscores the multifaceted nature of heatwave risk management, emphasising evidence-based strategies, nature-based solutions, and targeted interventions to mitigate heatwave risks and promote resilient living amid evolving climatic patterns.