Severe heatwaves expected in parts of Asia

By Avantika Deb

The severity and frequency of various extreme weather phenomena continues to increase worldwide. Heatwaves are one such manifestation of severe climate change and are causing major concerns across the globe, with a magnified effect in parts of the Asian continent.

Heatwaves cause prolonged periods of abnormally hot and humid weather, which in extreme cases can lead to fatalities. Studies have shown that what was once considered a 100-year extreme heatwave was 30 times more likely to happen today due to climate change.

Heatwaves pose a direct risk to human health; at least 90 people were killed and many others required hospitalisation in India and Pakistan throughout 2022.

Frequent reports of heatstrokes affecting elderly people and those working outdoors were also reported across China around June 2022 and authorities confirmed that the situation had become the worst since recordkeeping began in 1961.

Apart from causing health-related problems, heat waves also cause damage to agriculture, energy and infrastructure. Extreme temperatures and other resultant natural disasters such as drought, bushfire and even flooding have led to widespread crop and infrastructure damage.

High levels of energy consumption during extreme heat events have in turn led to power shortages in several areas; Pakistan suffered prolonged power outages in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan provinces in April 2022.

2023 has already witnessed an early onset of high temperatures in parts of Asia. India recorded its hottest February this year since 1877, with the average temperature being two degrees higher than normal.

The southern state of Kerala is facing severe and unprecedented heatwave conditions; some areas have recorded an alarming heat index of 54 degrees Celsius (129 degrees Fahrenheit).

Meteorological authorities in India have issued heatwave warnings in parts of the country through May; above-average maximum temperatures are expected over most parts of northeast, northwest, east and central India.

In the aftermath of the hot season, the annual monsoon is also expected to have a severe and heightened impact in the region.

Meanwhile, Australia is currently reeling under the effects of high temperatures due to a severe heatwave; around 33 bushfires were burning across the state of New South Wales as of March. The state of Queensland is also predicted to face a sweltering heatwave in the upcoming autumn months.

Several countries across the Asia-Pacific region are thus at an increased risk of heatwave-related disruptions in the coming months. The affected countries are also facing a high demand of electricity and resultant outages.

Visitors to the region should take necessary precautions against heatwave-related health risks. Travellers should closely track official weather warnings and follow their recommendations closely.

Outdoor movement should be limited and it is advisable to increase non-alcoholic fluid intake during hot days. People are also advised to wear thin, light-coloured clothes, avoid high-protein foods and consume fresh fruits when possible.

Avantika Deb is an India-based political and security risk analyst covering South and East Asia.

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