Record-breaking heat is sweeping across Asia, from Myanmar to the Philippines. Millions of children have had to miss school to escape the extreme temperatures.
According to Straits Times, the heatwave has struck most of Southeast and South Asia, with temperatures continually breaking records in Chauk (Myanmar) and Manila (Philippines) in recent days.
Extreme heat has hit most of Asia, with many countries recording temperatures exceeding 40°C. (Photo: Bloomberg).
The Thai government has issued warnings about the “serious” heat conditions, while authorities in Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have forecasted temperatures to surpass 40°C.
Experts predict that this year’s heat will last longer than in previous years due to the El Niño phenomenon and climate change.
Which Areas Are Affected?
The heatwave has impacted most of Southeast and South Asia. Schools in the Philippines and Bangladesh have had to suspend operations, while Indian authorities are considering whether the heat will affect voter turnout.
Northern Japan is also experiencing a heatwave. Temperatures in Sapporo have surpassed 25°C in April, marking the fastest warming on record.
More than 70 provinces in Thailand saw record temperatures in April, typically the hottest month of the year, with new highs breaking records set since 1958. According to the Thai Meteorological Department, the highest daily temperature reached 40°C in 25 provinces during April.
“Extreme heat in Southeast Asia: The heatwave is scorching the region. Below are the perceived temperatures in several cities with high temperatures on April 30” – Note in the photo. (Photo: Accuweather).
Extreme temperatures particularly affect children, the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and the poor.
Children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions or disabilities can heat up faster due to weaker immune systems compared to healthy adults. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warns that 243 million children may face health issues due to the heat in May.
“Children exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods are at risk of stress and discomfort,” said Salwa Aleryani, a medical expert at UNICEF for the East Asia and Pacific region. “Cardiovascular diseases, organ failure, and muscle and nerve dysfunctions are also more prevalent.”
Additionally, according to Straits Times, those living in poverty also struggle to access cooling solutions. Many poor individuals are forced to work outdoors and lack protection from extreme temperatures.
Extended Hot Season
As temperatures reach alarming levels, authorities in some countries are urging citizens to limit outdoor activities. Hospitals in Nepal have been put on alert. Meanwhile, Cambodian officials have instructed schools to keep doors and windows open for ventilation in classrooms.
In Bangladesh and the Philippines, schools have been closed for several days.
Thailand recorded the highest daily temperature of 40°C in 25 provinces in April. (Photo: Bangkok Post).
Nevertheless, according to Ms. Aleryani, many children cannot escape the heat, whether at home or school. “Parents cannot take time off work due to the heat, so many children have to stay home alone in extreme heat. This not only disrupts their education but also poses serious health risks,” she remarked.
Experts note that the months leading up to the rainy season in Asia are typically hot. However, temperatures in 2024 are significantly higher than the averages in these countries. Climate change is causing more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves.
The World Meteorological Organization states that Asia is warming faster than the global average. Moreover, the El Niño weather phenomenon is a major contributing factor to this issue, according to Dr. Milton Speer, a meteorological researcher at the University of Technology Sydney.
“The lack of clouds during El Niño means average temperatures can be even higher,” he shared with AFP. Additionally, deforestation reduces shade, and the urban heat island effect (materials like concrete, glass, and steel absorb rather than reflect heat) contributes to this year’s extreme heat.
Heat in Bangladesh is expected to persist until May 2. In Thailand, meteorologists predict the rainy season may arrive in late May, several weeks later than usual.
A rickshaw passes by a fountain during the ongoing heatwave in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (Photo: Razu/NurPhoto).
Dr. Speer noted that the global warming trend will continue even as the monsoon arrives, bringing cooler air. “Heatwaves will continue to occur because oceans and the atmosphere are warming due to rising global temperatures,” he said.
Adapting to extreme temperatures is crucial, according to Dr. Speer, and local authorities need to create more public spaces with air conditioning, allowing people to rest during the day and sleep at night.
