A study indicates that climate change has made recent heat waves in South Sudan ten times more likely, increasing temperatures by 2 degrees Celsius. The region, affected by years of conflict and food insecurity, faces heightened vulnerability, particularly among children and pregnant women. The findings urge for adaptive strategies to mitigate extreme heat impacts, with projections warning of more frequent heat waves in the future.
A recent study by World Weather Attribution has determined that climate change has significantly increased the likelihood and severity of extreme heat waves in South Sudan. Following a severe heat wave in February, which resulted in numerous students collapsing from heat-related illnesses, the government was compelled to close schools for two weeks. This event marked the second closure of schools within a year due to the impacts of extreme heat.
The analysis indicated that climate change, primarily resulting from fossil fuel emissions in wealthier nations, made at least one week of the heat wave ten times as likely and raised temperatures by 2 degrees Celsius. During the last week of February, temperatures in parts of South Sudan exceeded 42 degrees Celsius (107 degrees Fahrenheit). While the findings of the study have yet to undergo peer review, they rely on rigorous methods using climate models and weather data.
South Sudan, a nation that has endured prolonged civil unrest since gaining independence in 2011, is one of the least contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions yet bears a disproportionate burden of climate impacts. Joyce Kimutai, a researcher at Imperial College London, remarked, “The continent has contributed a tiny fraction of global emissions, but is bearing the brunt of climate change.”
The frequency and intensity of heat waves have increased, posing significant risks, especially to vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Various regions in East Africa, including parts of Kenya and Uganda, have also experienced extreme heat, complicating daily life for many. Access to clean water and cooling systems is severely limited, exacerbating the dangers posed by high temperatures.
In Juba, South Sudan’s capital, only 1 percent of the city features green space, which hinders residents’ ability to find relief from the heat. However, solutions can be implemented to reduce indoor temperatures. Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Center, highlighted measures such as improving ventilation, planting trees, and modifying school schedules to mitigate educational disruptions.
The lingering instability in South Sudan, compounded by years of conflict and food insecurity, amplifies vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change. Following a peace agreement in 2018 that ended a decade-long civil war, the country continues to face socio-political tensions. Dr. Guigma observed, “Climate change is clearly making life even harder in South Sudan, a country already facing economic challenges and periods of instability.”
According to the study, similar extreme heat waves could occur every ten years if global temperatures continue to escalate, with projections indicating annual occurrences if warming doubles by the century’s end. Furthermore, predictions suggest persistently high temperatures in the region throughout March, intensifying the urgency for adaptive measures.
In summary, the study highlights the critical role of climate change in exacerbating extreme heat conditions in South Sudan, a nation already grappling with the consequences of war and poverty. The findings underscore the urgent need for effective adaptation strategies to safeguard vulnerable populations against the increasing frequency of heat waves. As global temperatures rise, proactive measures become imperative to mitigate the humanitarian impacts on communities in South Sudan and similar regions.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
