Heatwaves and Climate Change: A Looming Global Crisis

I’m currently situated in an area experiencing intense heat, a sentiment seemingly shared by many others, evident from the recent blackout in Mexico and related concerns in the Indian Ocean region. This leads us to address the issue of heatwaves, characterized by prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures lasting for days or weeks, significantly exceeding the usual climate norms of a given region. WHO states that “from 1988-2017, more than 166000 people died due to heat waves including more than 70000 who died during the 2003 heatwave in Europe” which makes it a harsh reality in our world.

Heat waves can be attributed to natural weather patterns. In fact, recently, China in a bid to get rid of the air pollution had accidentally led to an increase in heat waves over the Pacific Ocean but will it surprise you to know that humans also play a role in causing heatwaves?. Human activities such as the emission of greenhouse gases, burning of fossil fuels, pollution, urbanization, land use among others have greatly contributed to heatwaves.

Heatwaves have become a constant and devastating reality. In recent years we’ve witnessed a string of extreme heat events that have resulted in deaths. The Indian heatwave which resulted in over 2,500 deaths, the 2019 European heatwave which lead to widespread droughts and wildfires down to the 2021 Pacific Northwest heatwave which claimed over 1000 lives is a no brainer on the catastrophic effects of heatwaves. Furthermore, February 2024 was acclaimed one of the hottest month ever witnessed with record-breaking temperatures, either on a daily basis or for all of February.

Furthermore, the UNICEF reports that extreme heat and humidity can pose serious health risks especially for infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly.

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death. Heatwaves can put a strain on health and emergency services and also increase strain on water, energy and transportation resulting in power shortages or even blackouts.

Heatwaves are a pressing concern for human societies and ecosystems and therefore individuals, communities and governments can take actions to reduce the impact of heatwaves. Stay informed by monitoring weather forecasts and heatwave warnings to plan accordingly. Stay cool by using cooling devices, shades and cooling areas to beat the heat. Support climate action by advocating for policies that address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Heatwaves can be curbed only when do the right thing.