A study indicates that climate change has increased the severity of a heatwave in South Sudan, particularly impacting women and girls. The nation, plagued by insecurity since its 2011 independence, faces significant challenges in managing the heatwave, which has led to school closures and health risks. Experts predict that such extreme heat events will become more frequent, presenting ongoing challenges to the populace.
A recent study has indicated that man-made climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of the severe heatwave currently affecting South Sudan. The findings suggest that soaring temperatures are disproportionately impacting women and girls, contributing to their existing vulnerabilities in the impoverished nation. South Sudan, since its independence in 2011, has faced chronic insecurity and instability, leaving it ill-prepared to manage the escalating environmental challenges.
The ongoing heatwave has coincided with a period of political unrest in South Sudan, raising concerns about the potential unraveling of the 2018 peace agreement that concluded a brutal five-year civil war. Specific reports indicate that temperatures have surged to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of the country, thereby prompting governmental actions such as the closure of schools in the capital due to health risks for students.
According to the study published by the World Weather Attribution network, climate change has contributed to making the extreme heat at least 2 degrees Celsius hotter and ten times more likely. Kiswendsida Guigma, a climate scientist at the Red Cross and Red Crescent, highlighted how climate change exacerbates the already difficult living conditions faced by South Sudanese citizens.
The study emphasizes the challenges posed by the heatwave, particularly for women who are tasked with essential outdoor activities, such as water collection and cooking. It was noted that many homes lack air conditioning and have tin roofs, complicating adherence to health advisories recommending people stay indoors. Elizabeth Lodou Lochapio, a resident of Kapoeta, described how women struggle to work in the oppressive heat, stating they must contribute to their households despite the harsh conditions.
Researcher Sarah Kew from the Netherlands Meteorological Institute remarked that dangerous heatwaves exceeding 40 degrees Celsius are becoming increasingly frequent and are expected to occur every two years. The ongoing heat conditions are not anticipated to alleviate soon, as projections suggest that elevated temperatures will continue throughout March.
In summary, the study underlines the severe implications of climate change for South Sudan, particularly highlighting the disproportionate effects on women and girls. The escalating heat conditions, exacerbated by political instability and a lack of infrastructure, significantly challenge the population’s ability to thrive. The findings also emphasize the need for urgent action to address both climate change and the resulting humanitarian crises in vulnerable regions such as South Sudan.
Original Source: www.webstercountycitizen.com
