Millions in South and Southeast Asia are enduring extreme heat, with temperatures forcing school closures and threatening public health.
In the Philippines, thousands of schools, including those in Metro Manila, have suspended in-person classes due to the intense heat.
Half of the country’s provinces are experiencing drought, while nearly 31 others face dry conditions. The UN has called for more support to help the country prepare for future weather events, warning that the upcoming harvest may be below average.
El Niño intensifies heatwaves, driving up energy demand and causing deaths across Southeast Asia.April and May are typically the hottest months in Southeast Asia, but this year’s El Niño event has intensified the heat.
In Thailand, 30 people have died from heatstroke, and electricity demand reached a record high as residents sought relief through air conditioning. Bangkok recorded temperatures of 40.1°C, with a potential “heat index” of over 52°C due to humidity.
The heat has also impacted education in Bangladesh, where temperatures have soared to 42°C, forcing the closure of schools, affecting about 33 million children. In India, where a six-week election is underway, officials are addressing the heat’s impact on voters. Roads Minister Nitin Gadkari fainted during a rally due to the heat.
The World Meteorological Organization reported that Asia remains the most disaster-prone region, with heatwaves, floods, and storms causing significant casualties and economic losses.
Severe heatwaves in India last year led to 110 deaths. The ongoing climate crisis is exacerbating extreme weather, making deadly disasters like heatwaves, floods, and wildfires more frequent.