A recent study reveals that climate change has made the heatwave in South Sudan more likely and severe, affecting women and girls disproportionately. The nation, already struggling with instability, faces further challenges due to soaring temperatures and resource scarcity. The heatwave, with temperatures reaching 40°C, has led to school closures and health warnings, with climate scientists indicating that such extreme heat is becoming the new normal.
A recent study indicates that man-made climate change significantly increased the likelihood of the ongoing heatwave in South Sudan, exacerbating the already precarious situation for women and girls in the region. South Sudan, a nation characterized by instability since its independence in 2011, lacks sufficient resources to manage the growing environmental crises it faces, including this heatwave occurring amidst political unrest.
The notable heatwave has led to temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in portions of South Sudan, as reported by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Consequently, the government has initiated school closures in the capital, Juba, where an alarming average of 12 students collapsed daily due to the heat, urging residents to stay indoors.
According to the findings from the World Weather Attribution study, climate change has raised the average temperature by at least 2°C and has made these heat events ten times more probable. Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist, commented that climate change complicates life in South Sudan, a nation already burdened by economic difficulties and instability.
The study highlights the challenges faced by many outdoor workers and the impracticality of government stay-at-home mandates, given the prevalence of tin-roof housing and minimal air conditioning. Access to drinking water remains scarce, with only 8.4% of the population having electricity as of 2022, according to the World Bank. Furthermore, women and girls bear the greatest burden of these conditions, as traditional daily tasks frequently fall on them.
Elizabeth Lodou Lochapio from Kapoeta reported that women are compelled to venture out for work despite the extreme heat, stating, “When the sun was at its hottest, between midday and 3:00 pm, I don’t move; I make sure that I stay in one place.” Sarah Kew from the Netherlands Meteorological Institute remarked, “Climate change means that dangerous heatwaves exceeding 40 degrees are becoming the new normal in South Sudan.” This evolving climate reality presents significant challenges for the population, with expectations of continued heat through March.
The study asserts that climate change is significantly impacting South Sudan, heightening the severity of heatwaves that disproportionately affect women and girls. The study outlines the dire circumstances as the nation grapples with both climate and political challenges. This evolving climate crisis demands immediate attention and response efforts to ensure the health and safety of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
