Heat wave threats: Keeping Nepali communities safe from rising temperatures

It is well-documented that the current average global temperature is increasing. Data from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) shows that the average global temperature has been rising by 0.052 percent annually. The frequent occurrence of heat waves in Nepal indicates that local temperatures are also exceeding the average. This situation poses serious threats to the health, livelihoods, and overall well-being of Nepali communities.

A heat wave is defined as exceptionally high temperatures that exceed the average maximum temperature, typically occurring from March to June, and sometimes extending into July. Cities like Dhangadi, Janakpur, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dipayal, and Surkhet have experienced extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius and above during the daytime. Normally, extreme heat is felt from May to September, but this year, temperatures in some Terai areas exceeded 40 degrees Celsius as early as April.

Increasing threat

In Nepal, heat waves—prolonged spells of unusually hot weather—have become more frequent, especially in the Terai region and cities like Kathmandu. These heat waves can cause dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and potentially fatal heatstroke. According to Dr. Bishnu Prasad Marasini of the Nepal Health Research Council, vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.

Climate experts link the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves in Nepal to global climate change and rising greenhouse gas emissions. Urbanization has exacerbated this issue, impacting not only human health but also depleting water sources and damaging crops.

Public health strategies

Public health officials in Nepal have implemented several measures to protect vulnerable populations. Awareness campaigns emphasize the risks of excessive heat, the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding vigorous activities, and keeping cool in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. The DHM has issued 11 bulletins this year, highlighting significant rises in both minimum and maximum temperatures and advising people to stay safe and alert.

The Government of Nepal has prioritized managing heat-related illnesses, developing a comprehensive heat wave action plan with support from various agencies. This includes training healthcare workers, ensuring proper facilities at healthcare centers (such as fans, cooling blankets, air conditioning, and sufficient IV fluids), and providing necessary medical supplies.

Civil society organizations have significantly contributed to heat wave mitigation efforts. Many have distributed fans, set up water ATMs for free drinking water, established makeshift cooling centers, and initiated “cool roof” projects using reflective materials to reduce heat absorption. These efforts represent a multi-faceted approach to mitigating the health impacts of heat waves. The Nepal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Authority (NDRRMA) has urged civil society organizations to actively contribute to heat wave response efforts without duplication.

Strategies for public health mitigation

To lessen the negative impacts of heat waves, government agencies, civil society organizations, media, and the private sector have implemented several strategies:

Awareness campaigns: Public education initiatives inform communities about the risks of heat waves and the importance of preventive actions. Media mobilization through traditional and digital means emphasizes staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and seeking shade or cool environments.

Healthcare preparedness: The Government of Nepal has ensured that medical facilities are prepared to handle heat-related health problems. Training healthcare workers to identify and manage heat stress, ensuring cooling equipment is intact, and developing heat wave response plans are priorities. Mobile health units and community health workers help reach vulnerable and underserved populations.

Heat action plans: With support from various agencies, municipalities have developed heat action plans, including temporary cooling centers, safe drinking water facilities, and emergency medical support. Efforts to identify vulnerable groups are ongoing to ensure they receive necessary assistance.

Community involvement and education

Schools and educational institutions should incorporate heat wave preparedness into their curricula, educating students on the science of heat waves, their impacts, and practical safety measures. Involving youth in climate action initiatives promotes environmental stewardship and innovation. For example, Dodhara Chadani Municipality in Kanchanpur district has mobilized youth groups to inform the community about climatic events, raise awareness, and advocate for necessary actions. Raghu Nath Bhatt, the DRR focal person of Dodhara Chadani Municipality, reported that youth mobilization through various platforms, including social media, has significantly aided in disaster mitigation and coping with heat wave challenges.

Infrastructure and planning

Long-term solutions to heat waves in Nepal require rethinking urban planning and infrastructure development. An engineer working at NDRRMA emphasized the need for policies to ensure new urban constructions are energy-efficient. Using cool roof technology and reflective building materials can significantly lower indoor temperatures and save energy.

Technology and innovation

Early warning systems can provide timely information about impending heat waves, allowing communities to take preventive measures. Mobile apps, SMS alerts, and social media posts are effective tools for disseminating heat wave warnings and safety tips. Renewable energy sources, such as solar power, and innovations in water management, including rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation systems, are essential for ensuring a reliable water supply during heat waves, especially in agriculture-dependent areas.

Looking ahead

As Nepal continues to face the challenges of heat waves, a multi-faceted approach is urgently needed. The government must prioritize developing a comprehensive strategy to protect Nepali communities from the dangers of heat waves, focusing on renewable energy and technological advancements in early warning systems. Community involvement is crucial to creating a sense of ownership, which can be promoted through neighborhood greening projects, local cooling programs, and other community-based activities.

 

The increasing frequency of heat waves serves as a clear reminder of the importance of addressing climate change and its effects. By taking early action, Nepal can ensure the safety of its citizens and build a more resilient and sustainable future in the face of global warming.