A study by World Weather Attribution indicates that a recent heatwave in South Sudan, intensified by climate change, disproportionately affects women and heightens health risks, particularly for pregnant women. School closures have worsened educational disparities for girls. The study warns of the growing frequency of such heat events due to climate change, necessitating urgent action to address these challenges.
A recent study conducted by World Weather Attribution reveals that the intense heatwave in South Sudan last month was exacerbated by climate change, rendering such events at least ten times more likely. The wave prompted authorities to temporarily close schools, during which numerous students experienced heat-related health issues. Alerts from health officials included recommendations to remain indoors and utilize fans or air conditioning, which are not accessible to most households due to infrastructural limitations.
The adverse effects of heat disproportionately affect women, particularly given the context of severe educational disruptions. In South Sudan, where over 2.8 million children are out of school, heat-induced closures further limit girls’ educational opportunities. Instead of returning to school, many girls are forced into household responsibilities that expose them to hazardous temperatures. This not only decreases their chances of continuing education but also compromises their health and safety.
Intense heat poses serious health risks, especially for pregnant women, as it can result in miscarriages and stillbirths. With an alarming maternal mortality rate of 1,223 deaths per 100,000 births in South Sudan, the implications of heat on women’s health are alarming. The study indicates that entrenched gender roles and limited alternatives amplify the dangers faced by women during extreme heat events.
The study underscores the relationship between human-caused climate change and the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves. Researchers conclude that the recent heatwave was made approximately 2°C hotter due to climate change, which is primarily driven by fossil fuel combustion. Predictions indicate that with continued emissions, similar heat events could occur as often as annually by 2.6°C warming scenarios, highlighting the urgent need for climate action to mitigate these impacts.
In summary, the recent heatwave in South Sudan has spotlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls, exacerbating existing inequalities in access to education and health. The findings underscore the direct connection between rising global temperatures and the increasing frequency of heatwaves, urging immediate attention to climate action. Protective measures are crucial to safeguard vulnerable populations, particularly in regions already grappling with significant socio-economic challenges.
Original Source: earth.org
