Tourists exploring popular destinations worldwide may face extreme heat risks due to the impending El Nino phenomenon. A recent study by the University of Oxford has identified that a significant number of major cities, including tourist hubs like Bangkok, are vulnerable to intensified global temperatures during El Nino events.
The research indicates that approximately 95% of the most at-risk cities are located in South and Southeast Asia, as well as Sub-Saharan Africa. Lead researcher Nethmi Jayaratne Kariyawasam emphasized that besides high temperatures, factors like urban vulnerability and limited coping mechanisms contribute to the heightened heat risks in these regions.
The study, featured in Sustainable Cities and Societies, warns that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to increased mortality rates, infrastructure challenges, and economic losses in urban areas worldwide. With the majority of the global population residing in cities, the impact of climate change on urban environments is escalating rapidly.
The research team evaluated 220 cities with populations exceeding one million, considering various risk factors such as demographics and socioeconomic conditions. Notably, cities in South and Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa ranked highest in terms of vulnerability, while cities in the UK, particularly London, were found to be less susceptible to extreme heat risks.
Co-author Jesus Lizana highlighted the significance of the study in providing a comprehensive assessment of urban heat risks globally. The findings aim to guide prioritization of adaptation efforts and improve urban heat resilience on a worldwide scale in the face of climate change challenges.
