Exploring the Devastating Heat Wave in Southeast Asia

As temperatures across Southeast Asia continue to reach record levels, people are struggling to cope with the extreme heat and drought. In India alone, at least 11 people have died from heatstroke in the last week, and schools and colleges in some provinces have been forced to close. Meanwhile, Bangladesh is seeing its highest temperatures in almost 60 years, and seasonal rains have so far failed to appear. Regions across China are reporting record April highs, with many wildfires breaking out, and in Thailand, the mercury surpassed 45 degrees Celsius for the first time ever on Friday.

The situation is becoming critical, and climate experts warn that the extreme heat and drought may last for months. In Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, for instance, there is no respite from the dry heat wave that has persisted for the last two weeks, with temperatures rising above 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the country. The month of Ramadan, which is currently ongoing in Bangladesh, poses an added challenge, as most people fast from dawn to dusk, making it particularly challenging for those who work as rickshaw pullers, day laborers, and in the industries. People living in the slums with tin roofs are also facing great difficulties due to the heat.

Internal migration due to the impact of climate change is another major challenge. People from coastal areas migrate to urban areas, leading to overcrowding and a lack of green spaces. In Dhaka, which has grown since the 1980s, the green cover has shrunk from 17% to barely 2%, due to man-made intervention. Canals, wetlands, and rivers surrounding the city have been grabbed by land grabbers, making the climate much more eventful. Heavy traffic, concrete buildings, and tarmac roads all contribute to the heat, making it extremely difficult for people to cope.

While the onset of the monsoon usually provides some respite, there has been no sight of rain in Bangladesh this year, and the farmers are worried that their agricultural production could be affected. The government has recognized that heat stress is a significant challenge, particularly in urban areas. By 2040, the total working hours could be lost by as much as 5%, cutting into 4.9% of GDP. With most of the population projected to live in cities across Bangladesh by 2050, climate change is a growing concern.

The impact of climate change in recent years has been visible in Bangladesh, with heavy cyclones and frequent flooding in the country. As the situation worsens, it is clear that there are significant challenges ahead for the country to deal with the climate impacts. Urgent measures are needed to mitigate the situation and protect the people from the severe effects of the heat wave.

The devastating heat wave in Southeast Asia is an urgent reminder of the catastrophic effects of climate change. It highlights the need for immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb global warming. It is essential to raise awareness and take measures to protect people from the harmful effects of climate change. The time to act is now.