Scientists have determined that the unprecedented heatwave that swept through the Philippines in April was only possible due to the climate crisis. Temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) affected Asia, leading to fatalities, water shortages, crop failures, and widespread closures of schools.
Research indicates that the unprecedented extreme heat was significantly more likely in certain regions, such as India, Israel, and Palestine. This intensified heat compounded existing humanitarian crises, particularly in Gaza, where displaced individuals endure overcrowded conditions with limited access to water.
This study underscores how human-induced global warming exacerbates extreme weather events, even with a relatively modest increase in average temperatures of 1.2°C above preindustrial levels over the past four years. Another extraordinary heatwave struck West Africa and the Sahel in late March, causing further fatalities, with temperatures soaring to 48.5°C in Mali. While heat-related deaths are often underreported, evidence suggests a significant toll over the past two decades, particularly in Europe.
Experts caution that without decisive action to curb fossil fuel consumption, global temperatures could rise by at least 2.5°C, leading to even more frequent and severe heatwaves. Dr. Friederike Otto from Imperial College London emphasizes the deadly consequences of additional heat, driven by emissions from fossil fuels, particularly in regions like Gaza, Delhi, and Manila.
Carolina Pereira Marghidan, a consultant on heat risk at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, highlights how the heat exacerbates existing crises in Gaza, where displaced populations lack access to essential resources. The study, conducted by the World Weather Attribution team, analyzed three regions affected by extreme heat in April, showing that global warming amplified temperatures by 1.7°C in parts of the Middle East and 1°C in the Philippines.
The study underscores the urgent need for improved heatwave early warning systems and urban planning to protect vulnerable populations, especially outdoor workers and those in informal housing. Dr. Mariam Zachariah, also from Imperial College London, warns of even greater suffering in Asia unless significant steps are taken to limit warming to 1.5°C.
