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As summer approaches, so does the spectre of heat waves, increasingly intensified by the overarching force of climate change. What we have been seeing throughout the last few weeks the scenario is beyond imagination. All the previous records of high temperature are breaking. A 76-year-long record of longest heat waves also broke this season.
It's completely difficult to think if we compare it with the past decades. When Bangladesh was a six-seasoned country with a balanced seasoning. But things are changing rapidly and consequently, the present situation is merely unbearable and worse. The correlation or the diversity of seasons in Bangladesh was charming. But now it has undergone a huge change. As a result of this change now the country is experiencing the extreme form of nature.
Heat waves can be particularly challenging in Bangladesh due to its geographical location and climate. Bangladesh is situated in a tropical region, experiencing high temperatures and humidity, especially during the summer months. Factors like urbanization, deforestation, and climate change can exacerbate heat waves, making them more frequent and intense. Additionally, the population density and socioeconomic factors in Bangladesh can contribute to the vulnerability of its people to the impacts of extreme heat. As far as the media report within these heat days more than 15 people died in heat strock along with 3 school and madrasa teachers. Especially the village farmers, rickshaw pullers, and building workers are in supreme condition. Above all people of all forms are suffering tremendously.
According to the recently published BMD report "Changing Climate of Bangladesh" observed that the minimum and maximum temperatures increased in the country but the maximum temperatures increased more rapidly. Likewise, the highest temperature marks 40.6/7 degree Celsius and it might increase more according to Bangladesh Metrological Department. And it might stay till May.
Heatwaves are one of the most dangerous manifestations of climate change. It has thrown out any sense that heat vulnerability follows a pattern limited to peak summer months. The deadly heat waves would have been all but impossible without climate change. Instead, changing climatic patterns are accelerating the intensity, duration, and severity of heat waves.
Among the variations, the ongoing severe heat waves are now a hot cake. The superlative form of nature ultimately causes numerous changes in the day to day life. Though it has several reasons behind all these. But in bold mark, it's fair enough to say that we are suffering as a consequence of our own faults. Who is to blame for this? It's a very argumentative reality but still none but we the civilians are the main culprit behind it so far.
We for the sake of our living or comfort cut huge amounts of trees. As a result of this deforestation, the normal natural rhythms are undergoing notable changes. So nature is reacting due to its sudden changes when we, human beings are suffering bitterly.
The worst effects of climate change are not confined to distant lands or distant futures—they are happening here and now, affecting us all. However, amidst the gloom and despair, there is hope. The global community is waking up to the urgency of the climate crisis, mobilizing efforts to reduce emissions, transition to renewable energy, and build resilience.
The correlation between rising global temperatures and the frequency and severity of heat waves is undeniable, posing significant challenges to both human health and ecological stability. The tremendous effects of climate change affect it so severely that it's going hard to survive. Especially when it is in its supreme touch. Because we are not used to all these at all. Even don't know how to survive in this extreme situation when the temperature of above 40 degree Celsius or even more. But what are the main reasons behind this? It needs to go to the deep to figure out the exact reasons.
However, beyond the immediate devastation, climate change is wreaking havoc on the delicate balance of ecosystems worldwide. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns disrupt habitats, endangering countless plant and animal species. Coral reefs, vital marine ecosystems teeming with life, are bleaching at an alarming rate due to warming oceans. Glaciers are receding, threatening a vital source of freshwater for millions of people. The loss of biodiversity not only diminishes the beauty of our country but also undermines its resilience and ability to sustain life.
The science behind this phenomenon is stark. Climate change, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, leads to a buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
These gases trap heat, causing a steady rise in global temperatures. Consequently, heat waves become more frequent, prolonged, and intense. What we are experiencing right now.
The ramifications of these heat waves are profound. They jeopardize public health, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke and dehydration, become more prevalent during extended periods of extreme heat. Moreover, the urban heat island effect exacerbates the problem in densely populated areas, where concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat, further elevating temperatures.
Beyond human health, heat waves disrupt ecosystems and agricultural systems. They exacerbate drought conditions, leading to crop failures and water shortages. Wildlife faces challenges as habitats become inhospitable, disrupting migration patterns and threatening biodiversity. Additionally, heat stress can devastate marine ecosystems, leading to coral bleaching and disrupting marine food webs.
As the country is baking in the heatwave, road surfaces in several districts have melted due to the use of bitumen that cannot withstand this extreme heat. Likewise in Jashore, Chuadanga and some other districts, we see that.
Addressing the root cause of heat waves necessitates urgent and concerted action on climate change. Mitigation efforts, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and reforestation, are crucial for reducing heat waves. Adaptation measures, including implementing heat-resilient infrastructure, expanding green spaces in urban areas, and enhancing early warning systems, are also imperative to protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of heat waves.
Besides, it's important to follow the guidelines prescribed by the doctors and health ministry to reduce losses. For a long time prevention Govt with its related bodies should think deeply and take major steps including planting trees and all required steps to ensure a liveable county for the upcoming generation.
Furthermore, international cooperation is essential to tackle this global challenge. Nations must commit to ambitious targets outlined in agreements like the Paris Agreement and collaborate on strategies to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Without combined global efforts it's not possible for Bangladesh alone to mitigate these issues.
In conclusion, the link between climate change and heat waves is undeniable, and the consequences are far-reaching. Urgent action is needed at all levels, from individual lifestyle changes to global policy initiatives, to mitigate the impact of heat waves and safeguard the well-being of both people and the planet. Only through collective effort can we hope to mitigate the worst effects of climate change and build a more resilient and sustainable future.
The Writer is a Sub Editor of The Daily Messenger. He can be reached at: [email protected]
Messenger/Disha
