New Delhi, August 1: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged immediate action to address the extreme heat caused by El Niño.
During a press conference, Guterres referenced an update from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) regarding the El Niño forecast.
The latest forecast indicates a surge in extreme heat events, record-breaking heat domes, devastating wildfires, and soaring sea surface temperatures worldwide. These factors are significantly contributing to rising heat levels.
Guterres noted that El Niño is intensifying, exacerbating already scorching conditions. He stated, “The Pacific Ocean’s waters are warmer than ever during El Niño, and temperatures continue to rise. According to WMO estimates, nearly all land areas on Earth are expected to experience above-average heat until October.”
According to the Xinhua news agency, El Niño not only brings heat but also profoundly affects rainfall patterns globally. In India, the monsoon is already running significantly below average. Guterres warned of hot and dry conditions predicted for Central America, the Caribbean, parts of South America, South Asia, the southwestern Pacific, Europe, and Africa.
He emphasized, “The message is clear: the climate crisis has escalated dramatically.” The UN Chief called for action on four fronts: protecting people from worsening heat, ensuring safe working conditions, constructing and renovating buildings for the upcoming heat, and not exacerbating the climate crisis.
He stated that extreme heat poses a threat to society as a whole, requiring collaboration across all government departments. Every city and country should implement heat-health action plans, early warning systems, and public health measures that reach every community in a timely manner. Additionally, access to sustainable cooling must be expanded immediately and equitably.
Guterres urged governments and employers to establish heat standards and adjust working hours accordingly. Urban, residential, school, and hospital designs should incorporate measures to protect against excessive heat, and these considerations must be included in every plan and public budget.
He warned that every new fossil fuel project approved today makes tomorrow’s heatwaves more dangerous and the world less secure.
Guterres concluded, “The outcomes today indicate that extreme heat is no longer a future threat. It is becoming increasingly perilous. Unless we take steps to protect people and address the root causes of the crisis, it will become even more dangerous. The onset of heat is over. We can no longer wait for the main event.”
–
Leave a Comment