Cambodia is currently experiencing an extreme heat wave, the most severe ever recorded in the country's 170-year history. Chan Yutha, spokesman for the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, told The Associated Press on Monday. The agency estimates that temperatures in most parts of Cambodia could reach as high as 42 degrees Celsius this week.
The situation is similar in Myanmar. On Monday, Myanmar's Meteorological Department announced that seven cities in the Magway, Mandalay, Sagaing, and Bago regions were experiencing their highest recorded temperatures in history. Last week, several cities in Myanmar were listed among the hottest spots in the world. One of them is Chauk town in Magway, long known as the hottest region in the country. This city recorded the most extreme temperature in Myanmar, reaching 48.2°C, surpassing the previous record of 47.4°C set in 1968.
Meanwhile, millions of students in the Philippines have been told to stay home after the government canceled classes for two days on Monday. Young children and the elderly are being warned to be cautious of the hot weather.
The country is one of the hardest hit in the region, facing serious challenges from the heatwave, including water shortages, power outages, and damage to agriculture. In response, the Department of Education has shifted students in 47,000 public schools to online learning.
The capital region, Metropolitan Manila, recorded a high temperature of 38.8°C on Saturday, breaking decades-old records. At least 34 people fell ill and six died due to the extreme heat.
Extreme temperatures were also recorded in Thailand, with some northern areas reaching over 44°C. Meanwhile, temperatures in Bangkok and surrounding areas exceeded 40°C. The Meteorological Department predicts that this summer will be 1-2 degrees hotter than last year, with below-average rainfall.
According to the Thai Disease Control Department, 30 people died of heatstroke between January and April, down slightly from last year's 37.
Experts say heat-related deaths have increased significantly worldwide, but the situation in Asia remains unclear due to uncertainties in determining temperature-related deaths. In the midst of the heatwave in Southeast Asia, concerns about health impacts and heat-related deaths are growing. Governments and communities are urged to prioritize public health and safety as they respond to these extreme weather events.
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