A new global study reveals that extreme heat can make people feel worse. Scientists analysed more than a billion social media posts. They matched emotional tone with daily temperatures in 157 countries. Results showed moods sharply declined when heat exceeded 35°C. The effect was strongest in lower-income regions.
Researchers rated each post from very negative to very positive and linked it to weather data. Under scorching conditions, negative expressions rose by 25% in poorer countries and 8% in wealthier ones. The study highlights a direct emotional toll of climate change.
The Psychology of Hot Weather
High temperatures have long been connected with irritability and aggression. Past studies showed drivers honk more in heat and journalists use harsher language during hot periods. Crime data in Greece linked rising temperatures to increased murders. Historical research found most uprisings erupted during summer months. Hot weather is also associated with higher risks of suicide.
Possible explanations include changes in brain chemistry or hormonal shifts. Scientists suggest that heat affects serotonin and testosterone, which influence mood and aggression. Still, many factors may combine to shape behaviour.
Looking Toward Tomorrow
Climate projections indicate global sentiment could decline by 2.3% by the end of this century due to rising heat. The gap between low-income and high-income countries may grow. Vulnerable groups, like children and elderly people, are often missing from social media, meaning the real impact could be larger.
Researchers stress that societies must prepare for both physical and emotional effects of heat. Adapting to this unseen challenge will be key in a warming world.
