As our planet edges closer to 2050, the grip of climate change tightens, promising to escalate temperatures worldwide. While global warming affects every corner of the Earth, some beloved travel spots are forecasted to feel the heat more intensely. The C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group recently highlighted an alarming trend: the number of major cities facing at least three consecutive months of extreme heat will leap from 350 today to over 970 by 2050. From desert metropolises to coastal gems, here are 12 cities you might want to explore before they become scorchers.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, with its outdoor adventures and Hollywood glitz, is under increasing threat from climate-induced challenges like droughts and wildfires. Visit the City of Angels to experience its many attractions before the escalating heat reshapes its landscape.
Madrid, Spain
Spain’s capital, a hub of culture, history, and nightlife, also contends with being one of Europe’s hottest cities. Efforts to mitigate heat through green initiatives might not be enough to keep Madrid comfortable for visitors by 2050.
Athens, Greece
Athens, a cradle of civilization, teems with iconic historical sites and a bustling modern vibe. However, rising temperatures threaten to amplify the city’s heatwaves, making outdoor explorations like climbing Lycabettus Hill downright dangerous during peak heat.
Tunis, Tunisia
Tunis serves as a gateway to the ancient ruins of Carthage. As temperatures climb, these historical wonders may become too hot to comfortably explore.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, a city bursting with character, faces environmental threats from a warming Gulf of Mexico. Experience the iconic food, music, and festivals of The Big Easy while its unique ecosystem remains intact.
Bogota, Colombia
Bogota, once a dangerous megacity, now thrives as a hub of urban planning, art, and culture. But as it heats up, the city’s appeal, from its rainforests to street markets, may wane under the strain of increased temperatures due to being so close to the equator. It’s also at high risk from insects and microorganisms because of its proximity to the rain forest.
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Already baking under an average July temperature of 99°F (37°C), Kuwait City’s future forecasts predict even more intense heat. Known for its luxurious, air-conditioned comforts, the city might soon require visitors to spend more time indoors than enjoying its outdoor marvels, like the picturesque Corniche.
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Emerging as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia, Colombo’s colonial charm and modern vibrancy are undeniable. However, expected temperature rises call for sooner rather than later visits, especially to enjoy its stunning beaches and architectural marvels.
Shanghai, China
A city of contrasts, Shanghai’s culinary, shopping, and architectural wonders are shadowed by air pollution issues that climate change might worsen. Visiting before 2050 means experiencing its magic without the compounded challenge of rising temperatures and smog.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun, gateway to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, sees its underwater world threatened by rising sea temperatures. Visit soon to explore the vibrant reefs, cenotes, and beaches before climate change alters this tropical paradise.
Seoul, South Korea
A food lover’s paradise, Seoul’s risk of extreme heat days and heatwaves might alter the experience of exploring its diverse neighborhoods and culinary delights. Experience the vibrant Korean capital before climate dictates your travel plans.
Havana, Cuba
Havana’s timeless charm is matched by its vulnerability to rising temperatures, which could exacerbate existing infrastructure challenges. Discover this vibrant city’s history, culture, and cars before heat and potential power issues dim its shine.
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Katy Willis is a writer, lifelong homesteader, and master herbalist, master gardener, and canine nutritionist. Katy is a preparedness expert and modern homesteader practicing everyday preparedness, sustainability, and a holistic lifestyle.
She knows how important it is to be prepared for whatever life throws at you, because you just never know what's coming. And preparedness helps you give your family the best chance to thrive in any situation.
Katy is passionate about living naturally, growing food, keeping livestock, foraging, and making and using herbal remedies. Katy is an experienced herbalist and a member of the CMA (Complementary Medical Association).
Her preparedness skills go beyond just being "ready", she's ready to survive the initial disaster, and thrive afterward, too. She grows 100% organic food on roughly 15 acres and raises goats, chickens, and ducks. She also lovingly tends her orchard, where she grows many different fruit trees. And, because she likes to know exactly what she's feeding her family, she's a seasoned from-scratch cook and gluten-free baker.
Katy teaches foraging and environmental education classes, too, including self-sufficient living, modern homesteading, seed saving, and organic vegetable gardening.
Katy helps others learn forgotten skills, including basic survival skills and self-reliance.
She's been published on sites such as MSN, Angi, Home Advisor, Family Handyman, Wealth of Geeks, Readers Digest, and more.