A recent report by World Weather Attribution (WWA) has linked the severe heatwave that gripped West Africa in late March and early April to climate change. The extreme temperatures, which soared above 40°C (104°F) in countries like Mali and Burkina Faso, were unprecedented in living memory.
The WWA’s analysis concluded that such intense heatwaves would be virtually impossible without the influence of human-induced climate change. Clair Barnes, a statistician at WWA, stated, “In a pre-industrial climate, we wouldn’t expect to see heat waves at this intensity at all.”
The impact of the heatwave was particularly devastating, especially for vulnerable populations, including the elderly. In Niger, a 96-year-old woman succumbed to the heat, highlighting the deadly consequences of extreme temperatures, particularly in regions with limited access to cooling technologies.
Hospitals in West Africa witnessed a surge in heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and heatstroke. Dr. Andia Abdoul-Kader, a physician in Niger, noted an increase in the number of patients seeking care for heat-related ailments. Gabriel Toure Hospital in Mali reported a significant spike in heat-related deaths in early April.
The WWA warns that such extreme heat events will become more frequent and intense in the future if global greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. The report emphasises the urgent need for countries to develop and implement heat action plans to mitigate the risks associated with heatwaves. These plans should include early warning systems, public health measures, and strategies to protect vulnerable populations.
As the world grapples with the increasing frequency and severity of climate change-induced extreme weather events, it is crucial to take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate.
