A new study indicates that climate change has heightened the likelihood of the recent heatwave in South Sudan, affecting women and girls particularly hard. The country, already facing political instability, struggles with extreme temperatures, inadequate infrastructure, and water shortages. Experts note that such heat events are becoming increasingly common, posing serious challenges for the population.
Man-made climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of the current heatwave in South Sudan, affecting women and girls disproportionately. Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent insecurity and instability, rendering it ill-prepared for escalating environmental disasters. The ongoing political turmoil raises concerns about the sustainability of a 2018 peace agreement that ended a devastating civil war.
In February, temperatures soared to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in parts of the country, prompting government action, including the closure of schools due to health concerns related to heat. A recent report from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) highlighted the severity of the situation, with an alarming average of 12 students collapsing daily in the capital of Juba.
The study conducted by World Weather Attribution indicates that climate change has raised the extreme temperatures by at least 2 degrees Celsius and increased the likelihood of such heatwaves by more than tenfold. Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist associated with the Red Cross, emphasized that climate change exacerbates existing hardships in South Sudan, a nation already facing economic and political challenges.
The nature of work in South Sudan exacerbates the situation, as many laborers are exposed to extreme temperatures outdoors, complicating compliance with government advisories to stay indoors. The lack of air conditioning in most homes, coupled with a dire water and electricity supply situation—only 8.4 percent access in 2022—further illustrates the harsh realities faced by the population.
Elizabeth Lodou Lochapio from Kapoeta reiterated that the burden of heat is particularly heavy on women, who must venture out for daily tasks like collecting water and cooking. Sarah Kew of the Netherlands Meteorological Institute stated that previously rare heatwaves exceeding 40 degrees are becoming the norm, now occurring every two years. This shift represents not only a climatic challenge but also a significant burden on the people of South Sudan.
In summary, the heatwave in South Sudan is a clear indication of the impacts of climate change, with evidence suggesting increased temperature and frequency of such events. The compounded difficulties faced due to ongoing political instability, limited resources, and gender-specific burdens further complicate the humanitarian situation. Addressing climate change is critical to alleviating these challenges and ensuring the well-being of affected populations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
