Philippines and Bangladesh Suspend Classes as Extreme Heatwave Grips Asia

An extreme heatwave is sweeping across South and Southeast Asia, with temperatures soaring to a scorching 45°C (113°F) in some regions. The searing heat has forced the Philippines and Bangladesh to suspend classes, while claiming at least 8 lives in Bangladesh and 30 in Thailand.

In the Philippines, the education ministry canceled in-person classes at all public schools for two days due to reports of high blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting among students and teachers. "The physical health and mental well-being of our learners and teachers remain the highest priority of the Department of Education," the ministry said in a statement.

Temperatures in the Philippines are forecast to reach 37°C (98.6°F) in the next three days, with many classrooms lacking air conditioning. The heatwave is also putting pressure on power supplies in the country, with the grid operator warning of potential overloading.

In Bangladesh, a court ordered a nationwide shutdown of schools to the ongoing heatwave, after the government had sent millions of children back to class despite the searing temperatures. The government said at least 8 people had died as a result of the extreme heat since the start of April.

Thailand is also reeling under the heatwave, with temperatures forecast to surpass 40°C. The meteorological department has warned of "severe conditions" and advised people to avoid being outdoors for extended periods. At least 30 people have died from heat stroke in the country so far this year.

The heatwave is affecting other countries in the region as well, including Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Authorities have issued health warnings, urging residents to stay hydrated and seek relief in air-conditioned spaces.

Why this matters: The extreme heatwave in South and Southeast Asia highlights the severe impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations. As temperatures continue to rise, it is vital for governments to implement measures to protect public health and build resilience against the worsening effects of global warming.

Experts attribute the intense heatwaves to climate change, with extensive scientific research finding that it is causing heat waves to become longer, more frequent, and more intense. Meteorologists in Bangladesh have stated that the country has not seen such an intense heatwave since records began in 1948, warning that more severe heatwaves are expected in the future due to climate change and other man-made factors.

Key Takeaways

• Extreme heatwave sweeps South and Southeast Asia, forcing school closures.
• Temperatures reach 45°C, causing health issues and deaths in Philippines, Bangladesh, Thailand.
• Power grids strained, authorities issue health warnings urging people to stay hydrated.
• Heatwaves attributed to climate change, expected to worsen in the future.
• Governments must implement measures to protect public health and build climate resilience.