Visual portrayals of fun in the sun misrepresent heatwave risks in European newspapers

Abstract

Communication of heatwave risks is an important part of effective adaptation, with news media images playing an important role in the framing process. We examined visual news coverage of the 2019 heatwaves in France, Germany, the Netherlands and UK, using content and visual critical discourse analyses. Many visuals were positively valenced (in contrast to article texts), framing heatwaves as ‘fun in the sun’. The most prevalent type of images in all countries were photographs of people having fun in or by water. When images did depict the danger of heat extremes, people were largely absent. We conclude that this visual framing of heatwaves is problematic: first, by displacing concerns of vulnerability, it marginalises the experiences of those vulnerable to heatwaves; and second, it excludes opportunities for imagining a more resilient future. We conclude with suggestions to diversify the visual discourse on climate change and heatwaves in the news media.

A Global Review of Research on Effective Advocacy and Communication Strategies at the Intersection of Climate Change and Health

“…A recent study of visual news coverage of the 2019 heatwaves in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK found that the majority of media images portrayed heat waves as fun with leisure activities such as spending time at the beaches, pools, and fountains. In instances where the images sought to highlight the hazards associated with heat waves, people were often excluded from the frame (O'Neill et al, 2022).…”

Climate change affects multiple dimensions of well-being through impacts, information and policy responses

“…Measured loss of labour productivity due to extreme heat exposure, including financial insecurity among workers 30 Threats to personal security and public services from loss of inhabited lands due to sea-level rise and coastal erosion 43 Information about weather risks increasing insurance premiums, reducing coverage and de-incentivizing solidarity-based insurance 112 Underplaying of heat risks in media documentation of heatwaves through 'fun-in-the-sun' imagery 113 Increased livelihood security and improved consumption patterns through early warning systems and drought policy 114 Social cohesion achieved through inclusive, planned relocation where communities maintain agency 115 Place (place attachment, social cohesion, cultural and physical heritage)…”