week 10


                                    Heat Waves in Nepal

Extreme weather events have become one of the most serious environmental challenges in the world today. Due to rapid climate change, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, storms, and heat waves have increased significantly. Among these, heat waves have become one of the deadliest and most concerning weather events in recent years — not only in developed countries but also in developing countries like Nepal.

Heat waves are prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity, which can cause severe health problems, environmental damage, and economic losses. In recent years, Nepal has experienced an increasing number of heat waves, particularly in the southern plains known as the Terai region. This area is highly vulnerable due to its low elevation and tropical climate.


According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) of Nepal, the temperature in the Terai region can reach above 40°C (104°F) during peak summer. In cities like Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, Bhairahawa, Biratnagar, and Mahendranagar, heat waves have become more frequent and more intense than ever before (DHM, 2023). The increasing trend of heat waves is mainly due to global warming, deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization.

Studies have shown that Nepal's average annual temperature has been increasing by about 0.06°C per year, which is even higher than the global average (ICIMOD, 2021). This rapid rise in temperature has extended the heat wave season, making it last longer and become deadlier, especially for the vulnerable population like elderly people, children, pregnant women, and outdoor workers.

Heat waves not only affect human health but also have a severe impact on agriculture, livestock, biodiversity, and the economy of Nepal. The Terai region is known as the food production hub of Nepal, but during heat waves, crops dry out, livestock suffer from heat stress, and water resources become scarce. This directly affects the livelihood of farmers and increases the risk of food insecurity.

In 2019, a devastating heat wave hit the western Terai region of Nepal, claiming several lives in districts like Bardiya and Banke (The Kathmandu Post, 2019). The victims mainly suffered from heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses. Unfortunately, due to poverty, lack of healthcare access, and poor infrastructure, many rural communities in Nepal are unable to cope with such extreme weather events.

Apart from health risks, heat waves also cause power cuts because of the high demand for electricity. The use of fans, air coolers, and air conditioners increases sharply during hot days, leading to stress on the energy supply system. Moreover, road conditions deteriorate, and railway tracks can bend due to extreme heat, making transportation risky.

To reduce the risks of heat waves in Nepal, several preventive and adaptive measures need to be taken. Awareness campaigns should be launched to educate people on how to stay safe during heat waves. People should be advised to drink plenty of water, stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes, and use traditional cooling methods such as staying in shaded areas or using wet cloths on the body.

Local governments should establish community cooling centers in public places like schools, community halls, and health posts, especially during extreme heat events. It is also important to ensure the continuous supply of electricity and water during heat waves. Early warning systems through radio, television, mobile alerts, and social media can play a vital role in informing the public before the arrival of heat waves.

Organizations like the Nepal Red Cross Society have started providing guidelines on heatwave preparedness and first-aid responses (Nepal Red Cross Society, 2020). Plantation programs and increasing green spaces in urban areas can also help lower temperatures and provide shade to people and animals. It is crucial to implement policies that promote sustainable development, climate-resilient infrastructure, and renewable energy sources to tackle the long-term impacts of heat waves.

In conclusion, heat waves are becoming a serious threat in Nepal due to climate change. Immediate action is needed at the individual, community, and government levels to reduce the impact of heat waves. Protecting vulnerable populations, improving public awareness, and implementing preventive measures are the keys to saving lives and reducing damage from future heat waves. With collective efforts, Nepal can become more resilient and better prepared to face this growing environmental challenge.

References

  1. Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), Nepal. (2023). Climate Profile of Nepal. Retrieved from: http://dhm.gov.np/uploads/climate_profile_nepal.pdf

  2. International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). (2021). Climate Change in the Hindu Kush Himalaya. Retrieved from: https://www.icimod.org/resource/climate-change-in-the-hindu-kush-himalaya/

  3. The Kathmandu Post. (2019, June 5). Heat wave claims lives in western Nepal. Retrieved from: https://kathmandupost.com/national/2019/06/05/heatwave-claims-lives-in-western-nepal

  4. Nepal Red Cross Society. (2020). Heatwave Preparedness Tips. Retrieved from: https://www.nrcs.org/heatwave-awareness/

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