Kuwait City: The World’s Hottest Urban Environment Facing Extreme Heat Challenges
Kuwait City, recognized as the world’s hottest city, faces extreme heat conditions, prompting alarming wildlife incidents and serious health risks for its inhabitants. With projections of rising temperatures and insufficient climate action, the situation necessitates immediate attention to ensure safety and sustainability for the population.
Kuwait City has earned the title of the world’s hottest city, witnessing extreme weather phenomena such as birds falling from the sky and fish boiling in the sea. Once celebrated as the “Marseilles of the Gulf” for its thriving fishing industry and sunny beaches, the city now faces unbearable temperatures that surpass even the most severe heatwaves in Europe.
Historically, Kuwait City attracted many sun-seekers, reminiscent of Britain’s Victorian seaside resorts. However, it currently faces extreme heat, with a recorded temperature reaching 54°C (129°F) on 21 July 2016, marking one of the highest in the world. Projections suggest a further increase of 5.5°C (10°F) by the century’s end, compounding concerns over climate change impacts.
The city’s harsh landscape, predominately made of concrete and asphalt, is becoming increasingly inhospitable. The summer months render outdoor activities perilous, exacerbated by diminishing annual rainfall and severe dust storms. Reports indicate disturbing occurrences of wildlife fatalities, including birds perishing and marine life suffering intense heat conditions.
With temperatures exceeding 50°C, the risks to human health are grave, leading to potential complications such as heat exhaustion and even fatalities with prolonged exposure. In response, the Kuwaiti government has allowed night funerals to accommodate the extreme weather, while many opt to stay indoors in air-conditioned environments that have led to innovative infrastructure developments.
Kuwait City’s reality illustrates the critical impact of climate change on urban life, with extreme heat presenting direct threats to health and safety. The dependence on air conditioning and the high carbon footprint further complicate efforts to address these challenges. Despite the cooling amenities and modifications in lifestyle, the need for substantial climate action remains urgent to mitigate future risks and protect the population.
Original Source: www.mirror.co.uk
