A recent study reveals that climate change has heightened the severity of the current heatwave in South Sudan, with women and girls being disproportionately affected. As temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius, the nation grapples with insecurity, and the implications of climate change deepen existing challenges, particularly in light of the ongoing political turmoil.
A recent study indicates that human-induced climate change has significantly heightened the chances of a severe heatwave affecting South Sudan, which is particularly impacting women and girls. The nation, already grappling with insecurity and instability since its independence in 2011, is ill-prepared for worsening environmental crises, as revealed in this report issued from Nairobi.
The current heatwave, which has pushed temperatures to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in some areas, coincides with ongoing political unrest, raising concerns about the fragility of a 2018 peace agreement that ended a brutal civil war. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) reported that school closures were mandated in the capital, Juba, due to significant incidents of students collapsing amid the oppressive heat.
According to findings from the World Weather Attribution, climate change contributed to the recent extreme temperatures by increasing them by at least 2 degrees Celsius and making such heat events ten times more probable. “Climate change is clearly making life even more difficult in South Sudan,” stated Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist involved with the study.
Many residents work outdoors, and the prevalence of tin roofs without air conditioning further complicates compliance with government advice to stay indoors. The World Bank highlighted that access to drinking water remains limited, and electricity availability stood at a mere 8.4 percent in 2022. The study emphasizes that women disproportionately suffer during these extreme conditions as they perform essential daily activities like water collection and cooking.
Elizabeth Lodou Lochapio from Kapoeta remarked on the struggles faced by women, noting their need to work despite the severe heat. She emphasized the necessity of staying in one place during peak temperatures. Sarah Kew, a researcher from the Netherlands Meteorological Institute, articulated that dangerous heatwaves are becoming commonplace in South Sudan, occurring every two years, which presents profound challenges for the population. The heatwave is projected to continue through March, according to relevant forecasts.
The findings of this study underscore the urgent challenges faced by South Sudan amidst climate change. As temperatures soar to unprecedented levels, particularly impacting women and children, the socio-economic ramifications are significant. With climate change leading to a new normal of extreme heatwaves, proactive measures and support are essential to mitigate the adverse effects on vulnerable communities in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.france24.com
