An emerging study confirms that climate change has increased the intensity and frequency of the current heatwave in South Sudan, notably affecting women and girls. The country, already suffering from political instability, faces significant challenges due to rising temperatures. With limited resources and infrastructure, the heat poses serious health risks and exacerbates existing gender inequalities.
A recent study indicates that climate change has significantly heightened the probability of the heatwave currently afflicting South Sudan, particularly impacting women and girls. Since its independence in 2011, the country has struggled with insecurity and instability, leaving it vulnerable to environmental challenges. This heatwave coincides with ongoing political turmoil, raising concerns about the stability of a peace agreement established in 2018 to end a civil war.
Temperatures have soared to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several regions, leading to government interventions such as school closures in the capital, Juba, due to reports of students collapsing. The study conducted by World Weather Attribution suggests that climate change has made the extreme heat approximately 2 degrees Celsius hotter and increased its likelihood by at least tenfold.
Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist, emphasized the exacerbating factors of climate change on South Sudan’s already dire situation. The study highlighted that the majority of tasks performed outdoors, often by women, make it challenging to heed advice to stay indoors. Water scarcity and limited access to electricity (8.4 percent in 2022) further complicate living conditions.
Elizabeth Lodou Lochapio noted the difficult realities faced by women, who must venture out despite the heat to sustain their livelihoods. The oppressive midday sun restricts movement, forcing individuals to minimize activities during peak heat hours. Sarah Kew stated, “Climate change means that dangerous heatwaves exceeding 40 degrees are becoming the new normal in South Sudan,” emphasizing the frequency of these once-rare high-temperature events.
The predictions suggest sustained heat throughout March, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the population of South Sudan amidst intensifying climate changes.
In summary, the study illustrates that climate change is significantly altering weather patterns in South Sudan, resulting in increased and more frequent heatwaves. The adverse effects are particularly pronounced for women and girls who face the dual challenges of rising temperatures and socioeconomic instability. This situation underscores the urgent need for adaptive measures to help communities cope with the evolving climate crisis.
Original Source: www.france24.com
