Extreme heatwave claims over 100 lives in Mexico; Heat stress affects thousands of hajj pilgrims
Scientists are warning that global warming is exacerbating adverse weather conditions, leading to record-breaking high temperatures in many countries. This has been demonstrated by recent events in Mexico and Saudi Arabia, where extreme heat has caused fatalities and health emergencies.
In Mexico, the high temperatures have resulted in over 100 deaths, with more than 1,000 heat-related emergencies reported between June 12 and 25. The majority of these cases were caused by heat stroke and dehydration. The northern regions of Mexico, particularly Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas, bordering the US state of Texas, have been the most affected. The highest temperature recorded this week was 49 degrees Celsius (120 Fahrenheit) in the state of Sonora.
The situation in Mexico is expected to worsen, with authorities warning of another heatwave starting on July 1. The United Nations has also predicted that the years 2023-2027 will be the warmest five-year period ever recorded due to the combination of greenhouse gases and El Nino.
In Saudi Arabia, more than 2,000 hajj pilgrims have suffered from heat stress during the annual pilgrimage. With temperatures reaching 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit), the extreme heat has posed a significant challenge, especially for the elderly who were allowed to participate without an age limit this year due to the Covid pandemic. The Saudi health ministry reported over 1,700 cases of heat stress on a single day, in addition to the 287 cases previously reported. While the exact death toll has not been confirmed, at least 30 deaths have been reported from various countries.
To address the risks associated with extreme heat, Saudi Arabia deployed thousands of paramedics and set up field hospitals to provide medical assistance to the pilgrims. However, the Gulf climate is becoming increasingly uninhabitable due to rising temperatures caused by global warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has predicted that parts of the Gulf region could be uninhabitable by the end of the century.
Both Mexico and Saudi Arabia are grappling with the consequences of extreme heat, highlighting the urgent need to address global warming and its impact on adverse weather conditions. As temperatures continue to rise, it is crucial for countries to implement measures to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate the effects of heatwaves.
Overall, the devastating effects of extreme heat on human lives and health cannot be ignored. It is imperative that countries prioritize climate change mitigation strategies and take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, individuals should take precautions to stay safe during heatwaves by staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
