A World Weather Attribution study indicates climate change has made heat waves in South Sudan ten times more likely, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities from years of conflict and food insecurity. Following extreme heat, schools closed temporarily, while researchers recommend adaptations to mitigate heat effects. Future projections warn of increased frequency of similar heat events if global temperatures continue to rise.
A recent study conducted by World Weather Attribution revealed that climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of heat waves in South Sudan. Following a severe heat wave in February that affected students in the capital city, causing school closures, researchers found that one week of the heat event was ten times more likely due to climate change, raising temperatures by 2 degrees Celsius.
The research highlights South Sudan’s extreme vulnerability, exacerbated by years of civil conflict and food insecurity, despite the country contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions. Joyce Kimutai, with Imperial College London, noted that Africa has produced a fraction of global emissions yet is heavily impacted by climate change.
Heat waves are recognized as one of the deadliest extreme weather events, with particular danger for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Current conditions in Eastern Africa, including parts of Kenya and Uganda, have prompted health advisories urging residents to remain indoors, an impractical directive in areas with limited access to cooling and clean water.
In Juba, only 1 percent of the capital’s area is dedicated to green space for natural cooling. Experts suggest various adaptations to mitigate the effects of heat: enhancing ventilation in schools, planting trees, utilizing lighter paint on buildings, and modifying school schedules to reduce disruption to education.
The ongoing political tensions and economic challenges complicate South Sudan’s situation, as indicated by Dr. Kiswendsida Guigma from the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Center. Future projections suggest that similar extreme heat waves could occur with increased frequency, impacting the country’s already struggling educational system and overall well-being.
The findings from the World Weather Attribution study stress the significant impact of climate change on South Sudan, amplifying the dangers from heat waves in a country already confronted with violence and food scarcity. Increased adaptation strategies and environmental modifications may offer some relief, yet ongoing political and economic instability presents ongoing challenges. As global temperatures rise, South Sudan faces more frequent and severe heat events, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and action.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
