Kuwait City, the world’s hottest city, faces extreme temperatures where birds fall and fish boil due to rising heat. With a record high of 54°C, the city struggles with perilous outdoor conditions and a decreasing rainfall pattern. Health risks among its migrant population are projected to rise alongside climate impacts, challenging efforts for sustainability. Minimal climate commitments by the government fail to address increasing energy demands, requiring urgent action.
Kuwait City, recognized as the hottest city globally, experiences extreme weather phenomena where birds die and fish boil due to rising temperatures. Once a thriving hub for fishing and beach activities, it is now deemed too hot for these pursuits. The recorded temperature of 54°C (129°F) on July 21, 2016, marks one of the highest in the world. In comparison, the 2023 Cerberus Heatwave in Europe was significantly cooler than temperatures often observed in Kuwait, which exceeded European highs by 10°C.
Future projections anticipate an increase of 5.5°C (10°F) by the century’s end, with 2021 already noting over 19 days of temperatures surpassing 50°C. The environment is becoming inhospitable as Kuwait, characterized by concrete and asphalt, experiences perilous outdoor conditions in summer months. Rainfall is decreasing, leading to more frequent dust storms, impacting both the environment and health of its inhabitants.
The danger posed by temperatures reaching around 50°C includes serious health risks such as heat exhaustion and heart problems. In an unprecedented response to the heat, the Kuwaiti government has allowed nocturnal funerals. Many prefer the comfort of air conditioning, leading to infrastructural innovations like an indoor shopping street designed to shield residents from the oppressive climate.
While a study revealed that two-thirds of household electricity consumption in Kuwait is due to air conditioning, Joshua Wood from ExpatsExchange has acknowledged the high quality of life in the city, though he emphasized the extreme heat prevalent from May to September. The streets remain active despite the heat, heavily populated by migrant laborers who constitute approximately 70% of the population, primarily working in construction and services.
Research from the Institute of Physics indicates that migrant workers are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change, predicting heat-related mortality rates could rise significantly in the coming decades, especially among non-Kuwaiti populations. Global warming’s impacts are stark in Kuwait, with a significant carbon footprint, trailing only Bahrain and Qatar.
Kuwait’s climate commitments are minimal, targeting a mere 7.4% reduction in emissions by 2035. Energy demand is expected to grow rapidly, mainly due to increased air conditioning usage, supported by government subsidies which diminish incentives to conserve energy. Environmental expert Salman Zafar warns that serious impacts of global warming, including floods, droughts, and biodiversity loss, loom over Kuwait’s future.
Kuwait City stands as a stark reminder of the impacts of extreme heat and climate change, with harsh conditions forcing adaptations in daily life. While the city used to thrive, current temperatures pose significant health risks, especially for its large migrant workforce. Future projections indicate worsening conditions if climate actions remain insufficient. The necessity for effective climate policies and energy conservation measures is critical to facing the challenges ahead.
Original Source: www.mirror.co.uk
