Southeast Asia is currently experiencing a scorching heat wave, leading to soaring temperatures and health concerns across the region. Indonesia, in particular, is facing a dengue fever outbreak, with cases doubling from the previous year.
Here's a summary of the impact in five Southeast Asian countries:
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Philippines: The country has closed schools due to high temperatures, with health alerts issued to warn of potential risks like high blood pressure and fainting. Temperatures are expected to reach dangerous levels, with the heat index projected to hit 45 degrees Celsius.
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Thailand: The meteorological agency has advised people to limit outdoor activities due to temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Heatstroke has resulted in several deaths.
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Vietnam: Sweltering heat has driven people indoors, seeking shelter in air-conditioned places to avoid heat-related illnesses. Forest fires, dehydration, and heatstroke risks have been highlighted by the national weather agency.
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Malaysia: Heat warnings have been issued for several regions as temperatures are expected to remain high. Cases of heat-related illnesses, including fatalities, have been reported.
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Singapore: The country is anticipating higher temperatures, with uniform policies relaxed in some schools to ensure student comfort during physical education classes.
Additionally, Indonesia is seeing a rise in dengue fever cases due to the warmer climate. The Health Ministry attributes the increase in infections to the El Nino climate pattern, which has prolonged the dry season and accelerated mosquitoes' life cycles.
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