Kuwait City: The Consequences of Extreme Heat and Climate Change

Kuwait City, the hottest city globally, faces extreme temperatures resulting in health risks and environmental challenges. Once a prosperous area for fishing and sun-seekers, it now endures temperatures exceeding 50°C, impacting daily life and necessitating nighttime funerals. A significant migrant workforce is affected by climate extremes, with Kuwait’s environmental policies lagging behind neighboring nations, raising concerns over future climatic conditions.

Kuwait City is recognized as the hottest city in the world, experiencing extreme temperatures that have led to unprecedented phenomena, such as birds falling from the sky and fish boiling in the sea. Formerly a thriving hub with a booming fishing industry, Kuwait City’s climate has now rendered outdoor activities perilous, especially in the sweltering heat that exceeds even the hottest European summers.

On July 21, 2016, a record high of 54°C (129°F) was reported at the Mitribah weather station, placing Kuwait among the most extreme climates globally. The current Cerberus Heatwave of 2023 has seen temperatures surpassing those in Europe by 10°C, with projections suggesting an increase of 5.5°C (10°F) by the end of the century.

Kuwait is experiencing reduced annual rainfall and more frequent, severe dust storms, exacerbating the harsh living conditions. Alarming reports indicate the death of birds due to heat stress and aquatic life boiling in the warmer sea. The health risks associated with temperatures approaching 50°C include heat exhaustion, cardiovascular issues, and increased mortality risk.

In response to these extreme conditions, the Kuwaiti government has authorized nighttime funerals to accommodate the heat. Many residents now stay indoors, enjoying air-conditioned environments, while innovative infrastructure, such as indoor shopping streets, has been developed to provide relief from the relentless heat.

Despite the sweltering conditions, Kuwait remains bustling with activity, driven largely by a migrant labor force that constitutes about 70% of the population. This diverse workforce, primarily drawn from Arab nations and Southeast Asia, participates in vital economic sectors. Recent studies indicate that climate change poses a significant health risk for this vulnerable population, with projections suggesting an increase in heat-related mortality.

Kuwait’s carbon footprint is considerable, and the nation has lagged behind its neighbors in addressing climate issues. While the government has set a modest target for emission reduction by 2035, increasing energy demands and subsidies for electricity and desalinated water create challenges for conservation efforts. Environmental expert Salman Zafar has noted the potential serious impacts of climate change on Kuwait, including floods, droughts, and ecosystem degradation.

Kuwait City, grappling with extreme heat and its repercussions, exemplifies the profound impacts of climate change on both residents and the surrounding environment. As temperatures climb and vulnerabilities rise, proactive measures and a shift in environmental policy are crucial to safeguard the health of Kuwait’s population and mitigate the effects of global warming. Urgent action is needed to address the staggering carbon footprint and adapt to the increasingly severe climatic challenges ahead.

Original Source: www.mirror.co.uk