In 2024, Nigeria faced intense heat waves and dust storms, leading to a rise in meningitis cases, particularly in impoverished areas. The extreme temperatures, reaching unprecedented levels, have been linked to climate change, exacerbating public health issues.
The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service declared 2024 the hottest year on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This alarming trend has resulted in severe weather events, including deadly heat waves and droughts affecting millions across various regions.
In India, New Delhi experienced its longest heat wave in 13 years, with temperatures exceeding 40°C. The combination of extreme heat and air pollution has led to severe health consequences for outdoor workers, with rising levels of ground-level ozone contributing to respiratory issues.
Meanwhile, the Amazon rainforest has suffered from record wildfires, driven by prolonged drought and deforestation. In 2024, more than 53,620 fire outbreaks were recorded, severely impacting biodiversity and the health of Indigenous communities, with increased respiratory illnesses reported.
In Uganda, human-wildlife conflicts have escalated as elephant populations rebound due to effective conservation efforts. Electric fencing has been implemented to protect crops from elephants, addressing the growing tension between wildlife and local farmers.
These interconnected events illustrate the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change, which not only threatens the environment but also exacerbates public health risks and human-wildlife conflicts. As global temperatures rise, the urgency for comprehensive strategies to mitigate these impacts becomes increasingly critical.