WATCH THE VIDEO HERE The recent heatwave that gripped West Africa in February was exacerbated by human-caused global heating and also intensified to unprecedented levels; a new study has revealed. The scorching temperatures, which soared 4 degrees Celsius hotter than usual, affected millions across the region, leading to concerns about health risks and agricultural impacts. However, due to underreporting, the exact toll in terms of early deaths or illnesses remains unknown. West Africa, renowned as the world’s largest exporter of cocoa, faced significant challenges as farmers reported weakened cocoa trees, further compounded by extreme rainfall in December. According to meteorological experts, if global emissions from fossil fuels remain unchecked and temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, such heatwaves could occur every other year. Wasiu Adeniyi Ibrahim of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency highlighted the increased vulnerability of populations to heatwaves, particularly during unseasonal occurrences like those witnessed in February. The report emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat, especially in regions lacking adequate infrastructure and preparedness. As the world grapples with the growing impacts of climate change, experts emphasize the urgent need for wealthy nations to support developing countries in adaptation efforts. However, reaching net-zero emissions remains the ultimate goal in curbing the escalating climate crisis.
Recent West African heatwave linked to human-caused global heating- Study
