Impacts of cold spells on mortality risk in low-latitude subtropical plateau regions: a multi-dimensional analysis of spatial heterogeneity and vulnerability in Yunnan Province, China

Key Points

• Mortality risk increases during cold spells, particularly affecting vulnerable populations in Yunnan.
• The analysis identifies a 15% increase in mortality during extreme cold periods compared to milder days.
• Observational analysis across diverse climatic zones in Yunnan reveals significant spatial heterogeneity.
• The findings imply that localized cold weather preparedness measures may be needed to reduce mortality risk.