Several parts of South and South-East Asia have been hit by a severe and widespread heatwave. Extreme temperatures, exceeding 42 C, have been reported at 36 weather stations across India, and Thailand reached 45 C for the first time in history. Temperatures in Nepal's southern belt have also risen above 40 C, and a significant heatwave has been reported in Bangladesh's Dhaka divisions.
The ongoing heatwave has already claimed the lives of at least 15 people in India and Thailand, and authorities fear the death toll may rise in the coming days. Several states in India have been forced to close educational institutions to protect students from the sweltering heat.
In Thailand, health officials have advised residents to stay at home and avoid going out in the middle of the day to prevent heatstroke. The high temperatures have also led to an increase in demand for electricity, causing power cuts in some areas.
Experts warn that global warming is exacerbating the already severe weather conditions on the continent. The heatwave is expected to continue into next week, with temperatures remaining high in most parts of South and South-East Asia.
The situation has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on the region, and calls for immediate action to mitigate its effects have grown louder. Governments and environmental groups have been urged to work together to reduce carbon emissions and adopt sustainable practices to safeguard the planet's future.
The ongoing heatwave is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the growing threat of climate change, and the devastating impact it is having on our environment and communities.