In a rapidly changing world burdened by severe climate change, extreme heatwaves have become an unavoidable reality that profoundly impacts our daily lives—especially across the Middle East and North Africa. Their effects extend far beyond soaring temperatures, posing a direct and serious threat to human health. |
The summer of 2024 was recorded as the hottest globally since pre-industrial times, according to the European Climate Service, Copernicus. The Middle East and North Africa experienced unprecedented heatwaves, with record-breaking temperatures in countries such as Iraq, Egypt, Kuwait, Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
Last week, the UAE recorded a blistering 51.6°C — the highest May temperature since climate records began. Tragically, in 20224, hundreds of pilgrims lost their lives during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia as temperatures soared above 51°C.
Health Impacts of Extreme Heat Waves
Cardiovascular Risks: Excessive heat stresses blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially among the elderly and those with pre existing heart conditions.
Dehydration: Significant loss of body fluids leads to severe dehydration, impairing vital bodily functions and causing dizziness, intense headaches, and fatigue. In extreme cases, dehydration can cause seizures and dangerously low blood pressure.
Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke.
Heatstroke: A medical emergency that occurs when the body temperature exceeds 40°C. Symptoms include confusion, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.
Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays causes painful burns marked by redness and swelling, which in severe cases can develop into blisters.
Respiratory Issues: Hot and humid conditions can exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to breathing difficulties, wheezing, and coughing.
At-Risk Groups During Extreme Heat: Who Faces the Greatest Danger?
- Elderly and Children: Vulnerable populations such as infants and older people are particularly susceptible to heat stress. Their bodies cannot quickly adapt to rising temperatures, heightening the risk of potentially fatal dehydration. Heat-related mortality among individuals over 65 increased by 85% between 2000–2004 and 2017–2021.
- Pregnant Women: High temperatures can cause serious complications, including premature birth and low birth weight. Heat exposure may also trigger early labor or elevate blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension and gestational diabetes.
- Outdoor Workers: Individuals working under direct sunlight, such as construction and agricultural laborers, face elevated risks of heat stress. According to a recent International Labour Organization report, 70% of the global workforce is exposed to climate-related hazards, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths annually.
Rising temperatures have become a major challenge for humanity—including countries in our region—posing a direct threat to public health and demanding an urgent and broad response. Amid rising temperatures, understanding how to protect your health during heatwaves is vital. The article below offers practical health tips to help regulate body temperature and stay safe during extreme heat.
