Last month, Manila experienced a brutal spike in heat. This increase contributed to an ominous pattern throughout much of Asia, marked by abnormal and extreme weather. This extreme heat wave is part of a larger trend of “phenomenal” heat and humidity levels in the region. This comes on the heels of the unprecedented heat in 2023, now called the hottest year on record.
Sweltering weather this summer in Manila is part of a broader climate trend that experts expect will continue into 2024. Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, climate science professor at the Australian National University (ANU), delivers the alarm bells. She implores the region to prepare for extreme heat waves similar to the ones seen in 2023. Through her powerful storytelling, she emphasizes that these conditions are not one-off examples. Instead, they mirror a powerful growing wave sweeping the entirety of the North American continent.
“I’d expect to see similarly intense heat waves to last year … and also typhoons.” – Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, professor of climate science at Australian National University (ANU).
High summer Keith Pang and his mom, Marissa, play at a neighbor’s house in their community near Yuma, Ariz. Excellent photo taken by Rolly T Benaventura on April 26, 2024, in Philippines. It depicts a young woman searching for relief in steaming city streets. This devastating scene has become a defining image of what many people experience during this mounting climate reality.
Climate scientists are warning us that these extreme weather events will happen more often. Regardless, it is essential that local governments and communities embrace these changes and build the capacity to handle these upcoming challenges. The consequences of higher temperatures go far past increased irritation with sweaty days and sleepless nights.