Climate Change Exposes Children to Extreme Heat
A United Nations analysis reveals that nearly half a billion children worldwide are facing a growing threat from extreme heat, a consequence of accelerating climate change. UNICEF’s latest research shows that today’s children are experiencing at least twice as many extremely hot days compared to their grandparents, highlighting the rapid escalation of global temperatures.
Drastic Increase in Hot Days for Vulnerable Regions
UNICEF’s findings indicate that 466 million children, or one in five globally, are now exposed to extreme heat conditions each year. By comparing data from the 1960s to temperatures recorded between 2020 and 2024, researchers found a significant rise in days where temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius. This increase poses serious risks, especially for children in regions without the infrastructure to manage such intense heat.
Most Affected Regions and Populations
Children in West and Central Africa are particularly vulnerable, with 123 million—nearly 40%—suffering through extreme heat for more than a third of the year. In countries like South Sudan, the number of extremely hot days has surged from 110 in the 1960s to 165 today. Similarly, in Paraguay, children now endure nearly double the number of hot days compared to previous generations. The situation is equally dire in Latin America and the Caribbean, where 48 million children are exposed to a doubling of extreme heat days.
Health Risks of Extreme Heat on Children
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures significantly impacts children’s health, particularly in underdeveloped regions lacking proper cooling measures. Extreme heat can lead to heat stress, malnutrition, and increased susceptibility to diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Over time, these conditions can also impair children’s neurodevelopment, mental health, and overall well-being, compounded by factors like infrastructure damage and displacement.
UNICEF Calls for Urgent Climate Action
UNICEF is urging governments, world leaders, and the private sector to take immediate action against climate change, the primary driver of extreme heat. With upcoming Nationally Defined Contributions (NDC 3.0) due under the Paris Agreement, UNICEF stresses the importance of ambitious climate plans to stabilize temperatures. The organization advocates for reducing emissions, adapting social services to climate realities, and training health workers to manage heat-related conditions. Additionally, UNICEF aims to educate children to become lifelong environmental advocates, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
SOURCE: Ref Image from National Geographic
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