Speaking at the Singapore Dialogue on Sustainable World Resources earlier this month, Singapore Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu warned that hotter and drier conditions could fuel more severe forest fires and transboundary haze across Southeast Asia.

“A warmer-than-usual dry season is also expected in the coming months,” Fu said, citing forecasts from meteorological agencies and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

El Niño, which occurs every two to seven years, is a climate pattern associated with warmer Pacific Ocean temperatures that can trigger droughts , crop damage and extreme weather globally.

Several Southeast Asian countries are already experiencing unusually intense heat.

In Vietnam, local reports said beaches in Da Nang have seen fewer daytime visitors as soaring temperatures discourage outdoor activities. Similar conditions have been reported across Thailand and Malaysia, where extreme midday heat has disrupted tourism and daily routines.

The heatwave extends beyond Southeast Asia. India , Pakistan and Bangladesh have recorded temperatures nearing or exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, while parts of Europe are grappling with an unusually early heatwave driven by a “heat dome”.

The clip gained wider attention after Indian businessman Harsh Goenka reposted it online with a joke referencing the guru’s “fan following."

The unusual scene triggered debate over the optics of comfort and privilege surrounding religious figures.

Some social media users criticised what they described as excessive or luxury-like arrangements around a spiritual leader, with several mocking the spectacle online.

Others, however, defended the cooling measures, arguing that seeking relief from extreme temperatures should not attract criticism, particularly for older individuals.

The viral moment comes as large parts of India continue to endure extreme heat conditions .

Authorities in several regions have issued health warnings and urged residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours.

According to the India Meteorological Department, temperatures in some areas have climbed above 45 degrees Celsius in recent days, disrupting daily activities and forcing some schools to suspend classes.

Researchers said some of the sharpest increases are expected in parts of the Horn of Africa, including Djibouti, Somalia and Ethiopia ’s lowlands, where extreme heat exposure is already rising and is projected to worsen as the climate warms.  

The report also highlights how vulnerability, not just climate, shapes outcomes. It points to Djibouti, which is projected to see a rise in heat-related deaths roughly twice that of Kuwait despite broadly similar hot-weather conditions, a gap the researchers link to differences in resilience and protection.  

“In Djibouti, temperature-related mortality is projected to increase by 55 deaths per 100,000, on par with the current death rate of HIV/AIDS, while Kuwait is projected to experience 25 additional deaths per 100,000, less than half the current death rate of heart disease,” the report found.

A major theme in the findings is inequality; poorer communities are expected to suffer the most because they have fewer ways to escape extreme heat, from limited access to cooling, to weaker health systems, to outdoor work that increases exposure. The Climate Impact Lab said this makes adaptation spending in low-income areas “critical.”  

These projects mark the first components of a broader regional strategy to confront a rapidly escalating threat to human health and economic stability.

“Few regions feel the impacts of extreme heat as sharply as South Asia ,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo. “We all know that every death primarily due to excess heat can be prevented and heat health action plans are saving lives.” 

Where the funding will go

The South Asia Climate Health Desk, established under the joint programme and implemented with the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and the India Meteorological Department, will improve how weather and climate data are translated into public health action. 

This desk is expected to develop early warning systems, risk assessments and decision-support tools to help authorities respond before heatwaves peak.

A second initiative, the South Asia Scientific Research Consortium, backed by a Rockefeller Foundation grant to the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, will deepen scientific understanding of how extreme heat affects different populations. 

Under this program, researchers aim to develop tailored heat-risk thresholds to strengthen preparedness plans and community-level adaptation.

Why heat is a major problem in South Asia

In India and Pakistan, pre-monsoon temperatures regularly exceed 50°C. Heat-related mortality across the region now surpasses 200,000 deaths annually. 

Beyond the health toll, extreme heat is eroding productivity. In 2024 alone, India lost an estimated 247 billion potential labor hours due to heat exposure, translating to roughly $194 billion in income losses, according to the Lancet Countdown.

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the partnership will strengthen the “science-to-services pathway” and improve early warning support for health agencies.

These investments respond to calls by António Guterres for urgent global action on extreme heat, especially in South Asia, the world’s most populated region.

Sixteen provincial-level regions, including Xinjiang, Jiangxi and Hubei, recorded their highest temperatures on record since 1961, the agency said, reflecting the extent of the warming across the country.

Summer conditions were particularly severe. From June to August, the national average temperature stood at 22.3°C, also 1.1°C above normal and tied with 2024 as the hottest summer China has experienced in more than 60 years.

Alongside the rising heat, Beijing also logged its highest annual rainfall since 1961. Both the duration and total precipitation of the rainy season in northern China reached historic highs, highlighting the growing volatility of the country’s climate.

Emissions

The record warmth comes as China remains the world’s largest annual greenhouse gas emitter . In 2020, it released 12.3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, accounting for 27% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to data from the World Resources Institute’s CAIT database.

Despite its emissions profile, China continues to frame itself as “the world’s largest developing country” in international climate negotiations. 

Under the 2009 Copenhagen Accord, China committed to cut its carbon intensity by 40-45% from 2005 levels by 2020 and to source 15% of its energy from low-carbon sources. Its former climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, has said carbon intensity fell by 48.4% by 2020, with non-fossil fuels accounting for 15.9% of primary energy consumption.

Countries including the United States have called for a reassessment of responsibilities between developed and developing nations, arguing that China’s status as an upper middle-income, and soon potentially high-income, economy should be reflected in its climate ambitions.

The alert also extends to Mato Grosso do Sul and areas of Paraná, affecting more than 1,000 municipalities nationwide. In these areas, temperatures have risen up to 5 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, increasing health risks for the population.

Footage filmed by Viory on Sunday, December 28, showed residents in São Paulo seeking relief from the heat by drinking cold beverages, resting in shaded areas and using water fountains in public parks. Inmet forecast maximum temperatures of at least 34°C in the city, with conditions remaining oppressive throughout the weekend.

Some residents said the heat had become difficult to endure, prompting families to spend time outdoors near water sources. Others said they were avoiding beaches due to unsuitable conditions, instead turning to open urban spaces to cool down.

On Friday, December 27, São Paulo recorded a temperature of 36.2°C, the highest for December since records began in 1961, according to local authorities. In response to the heatwave, the state government warned of increased water consumption and urged residents to save and reuse water whenever possible.

Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors, limit outdoor activities, and stay hydrated as the nation contends with dangerously high temperatures. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed that more than 53,000 people have been hospitalised this summer due to heat stroke and related illnesses.

“Today is murderously hot,” said Takeshi Ishikawa, a 63-year-old auto worker in Tokyo, pausing at a public fountain to refill his water bottle. “If it gets to 42 degrees, it would be hotter than my bath that I prepare at 40 degrees.”

Festival-goers and tourists can be seen covered in dirt, unwinding in mud-based activities. 

Established in 1998 to promote local mud cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major international tourism event, blending recreation, wellness, and cultural performance.

“It's just so relaxing, being in the mud, and it feels so good on your skin, especially during the whole weather ,” one tourist said.

Large crowds gather to experience the mud and other attractions, including K-pop concerts, fireworks, parades, beach parties, and night markets.

The Philippine Weather Service warned that the heat index, which measures how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, could reach a dangerous level.

This can cause heat exhaustion and cramps. Although the actual temperature was expected to be around 33°C (91°F), officials decided it was safer to cancel classes in many areas.

In Malabon, a district in the capital, more than 68,000 students across 42 schools had to stay home. Other districts, such as Valenzuela, have switched to online learning to keep children safe from the extreme heat.

This is not the first time a heat wave has disrupted schools in the Philippines.

Similar conditions last year led to frequent class suspensions.

Climate experts warn that global warming is making extreme weather events more common. According to UNICEF, extreme weather affected 242 million children worldwide in 2024.

One local official said the decision to close schools was necessary to protect students.

"The safety of children is our top priority. We cannot risk their health in this kind of heat," he said.

Reports indicate that students were struggling to concentrate even before schools shut down.

The country is now entering the dry season, meaning high temperatures could continue for weeks. Authorities say they will keep monitoring the situation and adjust school schedules as needed.

Athimni noted that their income has significantly declined. “We’re earning half, sometimes just a third, of what we used to,” she said.

Tunisia produces approximately 10,000 tonnes of aromatic and medicinal herbs annually, according to official data. Rosemary, which accounts for over 40% of essential oil exports, is shipped primarily to France and the United States.

For two decades, Athimni’s collective has supported families in Tbainia, a village near Ain Draham. In a region with poverty levels higher than the national average, women comprise around 70% of the agricultural workforce and are often the primary earners for their households, AFP reports.

Tunisia is now in its sixth consecutive year of drought. Water reserves in the country’s 36 dams, most of which are located in the northwest, have plummeted to just 20% of capacity—a record low.

The women of Tbainia typically harvest herbs like eucalyptus, rosemary, and mastic year-round. However, reduced rainfall and drying mountain springs have diminished both the quantity and quality of their harvests.

“The mountain springs are drying up, and without snow or rain to replenish them, the herbs yield less oil,” Athimni explained.

Mongia Soudani, a 58-year-old mother of three who joined the collective five years ago, said the work is her family’s sole source of income.

“We used to gather three or four large sacks of herbs per harvest,” she said. “Now, we’re lucky to fill just one.”

Tunisia’s forests, covering 1.25 million hectares, include 10% of the northwestern region where the women work. Wildfires, exacerbated by drought and heatwaves, have further reduced the resources available to herb collectors.

Last summer, wildfires near Tbainia destroyed approximately 1,120 hectares of forest. “Parts of the mountain were consumed by flames, and other women lost everything,” Soudani recalled.

With the heatwave expected to continue, the country is likely to break the record of 26 consecutive tropical nights by the end of the week.

The relentless heat has significantly impacted daily life in South Korea. Electricity demand has surged to an all-time high of 102.3 gigawatts as people rely heavily on air conditioning and fans to stay cool.

The intense heat has also led to the cancellation of several professional baseball games, a first in the league's 43-year history.

Many South Koreans are finding creative ways to cope with the heat. Public parks and streets are equipped with misting stations, and people are seen carrying portable fans and umbrellas for shade.

According to a producer in Seoul, Kim Sung-yoon, "I used to think I was quite tolerant of heat, but these days, I wake up two or three times during my sleep. It is so hot that I keep waking up, so it is hard to sleep. These days, getting a good night's sleep seems to be the hardest thing."

Director at Korea Medical Tour Development Inc., Kim Soon-hee also adds "Since people have already experienced this wonderful invention called 'air conditioning', they cannot help but use it to beat the heat. So it seems that the Earth will only get hotter and hotter."

These record-breaking temperatures provide a glimpse into some regions' intense heat, often highlighting the impacts of climate change and the challenges those living in these areas face.

This compilation of the highest temperatures ever recorded on Earth showcases the extraordinary heat events that have been documented over the years:

At Bioparc Zoo in Fuengirola where animals live in a recreation of their natural habitat, authorities are giving zoo animals cold snacks to reduce the effects of high temperatures.

The fruits are frozen in juice to create tropical ice-creams. Vegetables are also frozen in various sauces to get similar effects.

"We made tropical fruit ice cream. What fruits have we used? Nectarine, peach, grape, all those kinds of fruits that are not usually part of their daily diet, and that are the most attractive. We have frozen them on one side, in juice ice creams mixed with these fruits, and the melon that I have right behind me, is juice ice cream, mixed with baby food,” Zoo keeper at Bioparc Fuengirola, Javier Tomas Vicens was quoted by AFP.

Countries like the Philippines, India, and Mali lack reliable data on heat-related deaths, making it difficult to mitigate the risks of extreme heat. Globally, 2.41 billion workers are exposed to excessive heat, causing nearly 19,000 deaths a year, according to the International Labour Organisation. Accurate data on heat-related deaths is difficult to obtain, especially in low-income countries, leading to undercounting. This lack of data is considered a public health failure and poses a significant challenge in addressing the impact of heat waves, reports The Japan Times .

Mali cuts ties with Ukraine

Mali has cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine over allegations that Kyiv aided an attack by armed groups in which Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries suffered heavy losses. Ukraine, however, denies the accusations, and the move follows a similar rebuke from Senegal. As reported by Africanews , this comes at a time of fraying relations between the West and coup-affected Sahel nations.

Insecurity affecting businesses

Anthony Osijo, the new CEO of Bboxx, is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel. He notes that political instability is making it increasingly difficult for Bboxx to secure financing for projects in affected areas. The Africa Report highlights that the solar power provider is currently assessing the safety of continuing operations in Mali and Burkina Faso. According to the UN's Security Council Report in July, the security situation remains "dire" in parts of the Sahel, particularly in the Liptako-Gourma region of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Former forfeits benefits

Former Mali prime minister Moussa Mara has given up his R22,000 (USD1,183) monthly pension, saying the poor need it more. Mali, one of the world's poorest nations, has a poverty rate of 44.4%. The country is facing economic challenges and political unrest, with a junta government in power since 2020 and failing to meet deadlines for a return to civilian authority, reports News24 .

Ukraine condemns Mali

Ukraine condemned Mali's hasty decision to cut ties over a recent attack. Mali accused Ukraine of involvement in an attack that killed soldiers and Russian mercenaries, but Ukraine denies any involvement and calls the decision unfriendly. According to DH , the diplomatic spat is not expected to have serious consequences for Ukraine's global relations.

"We have been having cases of hyperthermia and heatstroke for several years now, particularly involving racing events, like the 20 km of Paris race, and other similar incidents that we didn't necessarily have before, but with the rise of temperatures, we clearly have this problem, so our first-aiders are well-prepared," said Daphne Maurel, general manager of the association, quoted by AFP.

Maurel further emphasised the current situation: "We know that there are more cases of hyperthermia on the Olympic sites that are open, we can see this first-hand, and we are reinforcing all cold packs and water, if necessary. We also tell all our first-aiders that, when they take charge of a victim, whether it's someone who's fainted or not feeling very well, they immediately check their temperature. This is done systematically, and they place the person in the shade in a cool place, and as soon as they suspect hyperthermia or see that the temperature is high, they quickly carry out a medical check-up and call for medical advice.”

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games , which began on July 26, feature over ten thousand athletes competing in 32 different sports, including various outdoor events like marathons, football, and rugby. The games will conclude on August 11.

This year's Hajj pilgrimage was marred by extreme heat, with temperatures soaring beyond 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), resulting in over 1,300 fatalities .

A tally Senegal’s Health Minister, Ibrahima Sy, suspects that respiratory syndromes such as COVID-19 may have contributed to the death toll.

"Initially, we thought it was related to heatwaves because the temperature was excessively high, but we realised that there is a respiratory syndrome with the cases of death," Sy said.

"We told ourselves that, probably, there is a respiratory epidemic, and it was our duty to be able to monitor the pilgrims on their return by putting in place a screening system for everything COVID-19 related," he added.

In response, the Senegalese health ministry has tightened its health surveillance system by deploying a team at the airport to provide voluntary screening tests and identify pilgrims suffering from flu-like illnesses.

More than 1.8 million Muslims participated in this year's Hajj pilgrimage, including 12,000 pilgrims from Senegal.

BYD Co. is poised to establish a manufacturing plant in Mexico, a move anticipated to generate approximately 10,000 jobs, aligning it with the nation's most substantial automotive factories. Jorge Vallejo, BYD's General Director for Mexico, revealed in a recent interview that the company is concluding discussions regarding the plant's location, with a formal declaration expected soon. The exact distribution of direct BYD employees and those from contractors or suppliers was not specified. This new facility is projected to surpass the employment numbers of other car manufacturers in Mexico, such as Audi, reports Bloomberg . For comparison, Volkswagen's Puebla factory, currently the largest in Mexico, has 6,100 assembly line workers and 5,000 supervisory staff, in addition to the workforce managing parts assembly. Vallejo also noted that BYD is on track to sell 50,000 vehicles in Mexico this year. The recent launch of BYD's Shark hybrid truck in Mexico underscores the country's escalating significance to the firm.

Mexico recovering from tropical storm

Tropical Storm Alberto, which marked the onset of the storm season, diminished in strength as it traversed inland across northeast Mexico on Thursday. The storm, which had delivered substantial rainfall to some drought-stricken areas, was responsible for at least four fatalities. By the afternoon, the remnants of Alberto were dispersed across central Mexico, as reported by the National Hurricane Center. Despite the storm's weakening, forecasters noted that significant rainfall, accumulating to several inches, was occurring inland within the Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Nuevo Leon, and Coahuila. Meanwhile, South Texas was expected to experience a reduction in rainfall by Thursday, June 20, reports ABC . In Tampico, where the storm made landfall, the initial rainfall was less than anticipated, with intermittent showers and occasional sunshine observed during the early morning hours.

Heatwave kills 155

According to a recent health ministry report, Mexico has experienced 155 fatalities attributed to the severe heatwave that has affected the country starting from March. "During the current hot season (March 17-October 5), 155 deaths [related to high temperatures] were recorded across the country," the ministry said. In Mexico, the high temperatures have been linked to cases of heat stroke, dehydration, and burns. The coastal state of Veracruz, situated along the Gulf of Mexico, has reported the highest number of fatalities due to the heat, with a total of 56 deaths, according to News.am .

Financial sanctions

The US Treasury has imposed financial sanctions on two Mexican drug cartel leaders who are believed to be living in Mexico. They were indicted in 2017 for conspiring to import and distribute heroin in the US. The sanctions were announced by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control on Thursday, June 20, and are aimed at disrupting the cartels’ criminal operations and hitting their profits. Fox News reports that the sanctions are part of a joint effort with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the US Attorney’s office in Atlanta to combat drug cartel trafficking into the US.

Creating a reef

A colossal 70-foot steel sculpture, designed to resemble a cockroach, is slated to be submerged in the Gulf of Mexico to serve as an artificial reef. On Thursday, June 20, the team responsible for this unique initiative provided WLOX News with an exclusive preview of what could be a record-breaking underwater exhibit. “It’s all welded steel, and it’s welded to the tug boat,” said Bruno Milanese, the owner of Bay Pest Control, which started the project. “I decided if I was going to get involved in it, it was going to be very, very interesting. We decided to create the world’s largest cockroach and make it the world’s only cockroach reef.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, who serves as the Director General of the East Sea Institute at Vietnam's Diplomatic Academy (DAV), has been announced by the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the first Vietnamese nominee for a judgeship at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). The declaration was made by Permanent Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu during his participation in the 34th session of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which took place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, USA, from June 10 to June 14, reports Tuoi Tre News .

Renewable energy success

Renewable energy companies in Vietnam, particularly wind power companies, are expected to benefit from the country's ambitious Power Development Plan VIII. The plan aims to increase the contribution of renewable energy sources, with a focus on wind power and set targets for renewable energy shares by 2030 and 2050. Leading companies like Bamboo Capital Group, Gia Lai Electricity, and Hà Đô Group are expected to see long-term benefits. According to Viet Nam News , the Government has also introduced policies to support wind power projects, such as feed-in tariffs. However, challenges exist in managing offshore wind power development due to insufficient laws and regulations. Despite this, leading renewable energy companies are moving ahead with plans to invest in wind power projects to meet the country's growing energy demand.

Heavy downpours chasing away heat waves

Northern Vietnam is experiencing heavy downpours, which are expected to bring relief from the heat waves. The forecast indicates that the northern highlands and midlands are bracing for heavy rainfall of up to 150mm this weekend, which could trigger flooding and landslides. Nguyen Van Huong, the chief of the weather forecasting division at the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, announced on Friday, June 14 that the recent spell of warm, clear weather in the north would conclude with the arrival of rains induced by a southward-moving low-pressure zone from China. The expected downpour is primarily concentrated in the northern mountainous and midland regions, particularly in the provinces of Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Bac Kan, and Tuyen Quang, where rainfall could reach 150mm. According to VN Express , the northern lowlands may see nocturnal rainfall averaging 20-40 mm, with certain locales potentially experiencing up to 70 mm. Weather experts anticipate that the rains in the lowlands will diminish considerably by Sunday, June 16, although the northern highlands and midlands are likely to continue experiencing substantial rainfall.

World Camel Day celebrations

Vietnam celebrated World Camel Day for the first time, with an event organised by the Embassy of Saudi Arabia and the University of Languages and International Studies. The event highlighted the historical, cultural, and economic significance of camels in Arab life, as well as efforts to preserve their heritage. Camels have played a pivotal role in human society, not only as a means of transportation but also as a source of food and raw materials. The event aimed to promote understanding of the role of camels in Arab culture and their importance in harsh environments. Arab camels have been a key factor in the development of societies, especially since their domestication 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. The annual festival, celebrating the camel, takes place in the Umm Ruqaybah locality, close to the Al Artawiyah region in Saudi Arabia. It features a variety of special events and attracts numerous traders who come together to pay tribute to this esteemed animal, reports Viet Nam News .

Health insurance coverage rate

Recent trends indicating steady growth have led the General Director of Vietnam Social Security (VSS), Nguyễn Thế Mạnh, to maintain a positive outlook, projecting that the health insurance coverage rate will surpass 94% by year's end. During a conference in Hà Nội on June 14, which aimed to disclose social insurance data, Mạnh reported that the second quarter of 2024 witnessed a notable rise in enrollments for social, health, and unemployment insurance relative to the same quarter the previous year. Viet Nam News highlighted that approximately 18.3 million individuals enrolled in social insurance, marking a coverage rate of 39.05% of the labour force, which is an increment of 1.16 million people or 6.77% compared to the corresponding period in 2023.

Thousands of fish are dying in a lagoon in northern Mexico as it dries up due to a severe drought. The low water level has led to concentrated pollutants, threatening the species in the area. According to Phys.Org , this is happening as Mexico faces high temperatures and a record-breaking heatwave, with 125 deaths reported due to the hot weather. 

Man and woman die from electrocution

A 43-year-old man from Texas died and a 35-year-old woman was injured by electrocution in a hot tub at a resort in northwest Mexico. The incident occurred at a complex of private condominiums in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. CBS News reports that the woman remains in critical condition. Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the electrical failure. Last June, a man died from apparent electrocution while repairing a hot tub in Phoenix.

Science and innovation

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, a climate scientist, has become the first female president of Mexico with promises to prioritise science and innovation. Her stance on academic freedom and research funding remains uncertain. According to Times Higher Education , while some hope for change, others are skeptical about the extent of her departure from her predecessor's policies. The future of Mexico's controversial science law, which directs research funding, is also uncertain and could be influenced by the new administration. There is hope for a shift in tone, but challenges remain in reversing funding cuts and ensuring academic independence. 

Lawmakers killed after elections

Two female lawmakers in Mexico were killed days apart following the election of the country's first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum. A local councilwoman was gunned down on Friday, marking the second female politician to be killed after Sheinbaum's election, CBS reports.

Judicial reforms

Mexican President Lopez Obrador says market turbulence won't derail efforts to reform the judiciary, which he claims is corrupt. Market Screener reports that the ruling party's strong performance in recent elections has sparked market volatility but has also boosted their ability to pass constitutional reforms.

Amit Shah has taken charge as the Union home minister in Narendra Modi's 3.0 cabinet. This signifies a shift in leadership and potential changes in policies related to home affairs in India, Times of India reports.

Hockey Men's Junior World Cup

India has been chosen to host the 2025 International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, with a total of 24 teams participating for the first time. The decision was praised by FIH President Tayyab Ikram and Hockey India, who are looking forward to showcasing the future talent of the sport. The tournament will take place in December 2025, and the last edition was won by Germany in 2023.

Air traffic conflict

Indian officials are investigating a serious runway conflict at Mumbai Airport between Air India and IndiGo A320neos. The incident, which occurred on June 8, saw the IndiGo aircraft landing as the Air India aircraft was taking off, with only a few hundred meters separating them. Flight Global reports that both airlines have reported following air traffic control instructions, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the conflict.

Heatwaves

India is currently facing its longest heatwave, with temperatures over 50C in some areas. At least 60 heat-related deaths have been reported, but the actual number is likely higher. Water shortages and heat-related illnesses are having a major impact. The monsoon is expected to bring some relief, but officials warn that heatwaves will continue to be a problem if precautions are not taken. The country's reliance on coal for power is contributing to the problem, the BBC reports.

Religious diversity in minority affairs ministry

The minority affairs ministry has elected for the first time in its history, a Buddhist Kiren Rijiju as its head. Before this, the ministry was led by Muslims even under BJP governments. However, the pattern broke when Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi resigned a day before his term as Rajya Sabha member ended in July 2022 and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani got additional charge of the ministry. According to the Times of India , Rijiju will be assisted by a Christian from Kerala, George Kurian.

An Indonesian influencer was detained in Saudi Arabia for selling illegal Hajj packages using visit visas to Mecca. According to Jakarta Globe , Saudi authorities are also investigating other social media accounts involved in the same. The Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah is focused on helping the victims who had already paid for the illegal Hajj visas.

Heat waves during Hajj

Hajj pilgrims in Makkah have been advised to take precautions against extreme heat, as temperatures during the pilgrimage can reach up to 48 degrees Celsius. The elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable. Arabnews reports that pilgrims have been cautioned about the need to stay hydrated, cool, and vaccinated to protect against heat-related illnesses and strengthen the immune system. The Saudi government and Hajj authorities have implemented measures to accommodate the needs of pilgrims, including expanding medical facilities and shortening Friday sermons and prayers to alleviate the difficulties of worshippers during the Hajj season.

G7 Summit

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is among at least 13 heads of state invited to the G7 summit by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This reflects Italy's desire to broaden the horizons of the G7. The guest list also includes leaders from India, South Africa, Brazil, and other countries. The summit will focus on issues such as the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine's conflict with Russia, and the risks and opportunities posed by Artificial Intelligence. Italy hopes to bolster consensus on critical issues and draw attention to the problems of the Global South, especially Africa. According to the Middle East Monitor , the summit will also provide opportunities for bilateral meetings between leaders.

Worker remittances

Pakistan received a record $3.2 billion in worker remittances in May, with Saudi Arabia being the top contributor. Remittances play a vital role in supporting the country's economy and stabilising its currency. Arabnews reports that the increase in remittances is attributed to stability in the Pakistani currency and expectations of a new IMF program.

Saudi Girl Scout volunteers

Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association has enlisted 220 members from the Saudi Girl Scout Committee to assist pilgrims during the Hajj season in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites. The organisation is committed to increasing the participation of girl scouts and empowering young girls through volunteer work. Princess Sama bint Faisal bin Abdullah, chairwoman of the Saudi Girl Scout Committee, has been instrumental in ensuring the presence of girl scouts in diverse volunteer activities. The initiative reflects the commitment to empower and support Saudi girls and enable them to contribute meaningfully to society, Saudi Gazette reports.

According to the Meteorological Service Singapore, the highest Ultraviolet (UV) Index reading in Singapore in 2024 was recorded at 1.30 pm on February 15. It measured 14, just one point away from the maximum level of 15 on the UV index. The highest daily temperature of 36.4 deg C was recorded at Paya Lebar on April 26, 2024.

In the face of this, affected countries are devising innovative ways to combat the heat and provide relief for people.

The Straits Times reports that Singaporean schools are tackling the challenge of improving heat conditions in their respective schools to make life easier for students amidst the heat waves.

Polo Tee-shirts

What was known as a second official uniform for students at the Beatty Secondary School has been adopted as a regular uniform now to manage the heat and humidity. The school introduced polo tees made of dri-fit materials with moisture-wicking properties as a more casual and comfortable uniform to wear in 2020.

The dri-fit properties of the shirts aid in dealing with the sweat from the body but until April 2024, students were mandated to wear the full uniform (school shirt and tie) on Mondays. Now teachers and students can wear these tee shirts throughout the week to control the heat impact.

Trees and blower fans

At the Yu Neng Primary School in Singapore, a variety of trees planted by the school since 2005 serve as shade and heat relievers for students. Aside from its natural airy feel, it also neutralises the heat effect on students.

Beyond the trees, the school is utilising blower fans donated to the school in 2015. The blowers, 10 of which have been placed at strategic points including the canteen, hall, and walkways in the school provide relief from the heat. Students stand in front of the blower fans which circulate cool air and generate wind to cool down heat.

Cool paints and sunshades

The Tampines Secondary School has adopted Thermal comfort strategies to improve temperatures in the school. A pilot test conducted in the school to explore thermal comfort and energy efficiency in an existing building has been extended to all other parts of the school. The test conducted in 2018 used cool paint which reflects solar radiation from the surface of the ceiling of the test building resulting in the reduction of 12 degrees celcius in the roof surface temperature and 1.8 degrees celcius in the indoor ceiling surface temperature.

Direct current motor fans were also installed and rain diverters made to prevent rain from entering classrooms were converted into perforated panels to act as sunshades.

The extension of this test to all parts of the school has ensured that indoor thermal comfort is experienced by teachers and students without resorting to the use of air conditions particularly during the heatwaves.

What they said

Country Director for Maghreb and Malta at the World Bank, Jesko Hentschel, has emphasised the importance of building resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions while supporting economic growth and reducing poverty. His remarks follow the destruction in Morocco due to an intense heat wave. "The effects of climate change are increasingly present in Morocco, where water scarcity, drought, and floods have become growing issues," stated Jesko Hentschel. Carlo Buontempo , Director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service, also remarked on the global warming trends, "If you look at the temperature, it's yet again another record-breaking month... the streak of months, record-breaking months that started last year in June is continuing and now we are at the 11th month." He highlighted the significance of the global mean average temperature increase and its impact on regions like Morocco.

A gas storage tank fire at an industrial park in Rayong province, eastern Thailand has resulted in one fatality and the evacuation of 200 people, according to Thai officials. The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) said in a statement that four persons were injured in the fire, and one of them later passed away in the hospital from their wounds. The chief of the disaster prevention and mitigation office in Rayong province, Attaya Attaya Nual-Uthai, stated that "about 200 people had been evacuated from the area." The cause of the fire is unknown and rescue efforts are underway to extinguish the blaze.

Record high heat

Thailand was affected by a record-breaking heatwave in April and early May. In April, record highs were reached in 30 districts across Thailand's 77 provinces with 26 provinces having temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius. The extreme heat poses serious health risks to children and limits their outdoor activities and access to basic services. In 2020 alone, more than 75% of children in the Southeast Asian nation, roughly 10.3 million were impacted by high heat factors.

Jurassic World 4 to film in Thailand

Thailand has been revealed as one of the filming locations for the fourth instalment of the Hollywood film franchise Jurassic World, according to reports. The United Kingdom and Malta were also mentioned as locations for the film. Production is scheduled to kick off on June 17 and continue through October 18.

Criminalisation of cannabis

Thailand's government has reversed its decision to decriminalise cannabis , with the Prime Minister announcing that it will be reclassified as a narcotic by the end of the year. “I want the Health Ministry to amend the rules and relist cannabis as a narcotic. The ministry should quickly issue a rule to allow its usage for health and medical purposes only,” Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on social media. This comes just two years after the country became one of the first in Asia to decriminalise recreational usage.

Island closed after coral bleaching

Thailand closed an island due to extensive coral bleaching caused by rising ocean temperatures. The closure comes after a deadly heatwave across Asia. The Thai Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) said the Pling Island and the coral reefs around Sirinart National Park in Phuket, a province in southern Thailand would be temporarily closed due to extensive coral bleaching caused by rising seawater temperatures. The officials also disclosed that other national parks are being monitored.

Reports show that April 2024 was 0.67 degrees Celcius above the 1991-2020 average for April and above the previous high set in April 2016. The global average temperature for the past 12 months, from May 2023 to April 2024, is now the highest ever recorded, indicating a worrying trend in global warming.

The heat has had far-reaching impacts, with numerous countries experiencing brutal heat waves that have shattered records. In Asia, nations like Bangladesh, South Korea, and parts of India recorded their hottest April, leading to school closures and government advisories urging people to stay indoors. The extreme temperatures have also been linked to at least 38 deaths in Thailand due to heatstroke.

Droughts have also wreaked havoc in regions such as Vietnam , where the deaths of hundreds of thousands of fish have been recorded. In the Philippines, the receding water levels in a reservoir have revealed the ruins of a 300-year-old town , a grave reminder of the severity of the situation

Europe, the continent warming the fastest on Earth in the face of the human-driven climate crisis, saw temperatures in April that were 1.49 degrees Celcius above the 1990-2020 average, making it the second-hottest April on record for the region. The average global sea surface temperatures outside the polar regions were also the highest in records from 1979 for the month.

According to reports , the settlement was intentionally flooded when the dam was built in the 1970s, and its reappearance is a consequence of the ongoing drought affecting roughly half of the country's provinces.

The falling water levels at the Pantabangan Dam, which is the main irrigation and water source for the landlocked Nueva Ecija and surrounding provinces, have declined by 26 meters so far this year and are currently seven meters lower than at the same time last year, local government reports.

The Philippines, along with nearby South Asian countries, has been facing extreme heat in recent weeks, causing schools to suspend classes and prompting government advisories for people to stay indoors to avoid heatstroke.

Bangladesh closed all primary schools nationwide as temperatures soared to 43 degrees Celsius (109 Fahrenheit) on April 29.

Eastern India recorded its hottest April on record killing at least nine people , with parts of the country facing heatwave conditions during a general election. The persistent heatwave is expected to continue, with above-normal temperatures forecasted for May, according to weather officials.

Bangladesh's economy is facing three major risks, including persistent inflation, a growing debt burden, and slow economic growth, according to the Centre for Policy Dialogue. The high inflation is impacting low-income and marginalised individuals' ability to afford basic needs, while the increasing reliance on borrowing for debt servicing is raising the debt-to-GDP ratio. "The government's loan from domestic sources is almost double compared to the foreign debt, which is a sign of big problems. We know that around $5 billion in debt is unpaid in the energy sector," said Debapriya Bhattacharya a fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue. Additionally, slow economic growth is shrinking the government's fiscal space for spending, the Daily Star reports.

Educational institutions reopen amid heatwave challenges

Bangladesh’s educational institutions have reopened amid heatwave challenges, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff, according to local media Somoyo . The Bangladesh Ministry of Education has implemented stringent measures to mitigate risks associated with the heatwave, including limiting assembly on school premises and preventing students from engaging in educational activities outside the classroom. The decision to reopen educational institutions was initially scheduled for April 21, but due to the severity of the heatwave, they were declared closed on April 20.

India lifts onion export ban

India has lifted its ban on onion export to Bangladesh but imposed a 40% export duty on the product. The removal of the ban is unlikely to help tame the price of onion in Bangladesh due to existing higher duties, experts suggest. The Indian government has allowed shipments to India's friendly nations, including the UAE and Bangladesh, according to the Financial Express . The Bangladesh government requested the Indian government to permit 50,000 tonnes of onion export in March. However, the price of onion increased by 30-40% in a month during its peak harvest season in the country. Imports from India through private channels have remained halted for the last four months due to the export ban, the Financial Express reported.

Record foreign ships dock at Bangladesh's Mongla Port

Mongla Port, the second largest port in Bangladesh has seen eight commercial foreign ships dock , setting a record since its establishment. Notable vessels anchored at the port included Liberian-flagged Maersk Hai Phong, Singaporean-flagged Kota Tenaga, and MV Kota Rancak. The port's progress is advancing due to government efforts and port authority initiatives with over 55 development projects completed by the government. Mongla Port's role in driving economic progress is highlighted by a robust annual growth rate of around 20% in port utilisation.

Embassy in Washington welcomes Bangla New Year

Bangladesh Embassy in Washington celebrated the Bangla New Year on May 4. The event led by Bangladesh Ambassador to the US Muhammad Imran featured a cultural show showcasing Bangladesh's rich culture and heritage. According to the Daily Sun , the Ambassador encouraged Bangladeshis living abroad to spread awareness of their country's rich history, culture, and legacy while also instilling a sense of patriotism and the spirit of the historic Liberation War. The full-day event, which featured traditional Bangladeshi dishes, stalls selling traditional handicrafts, banners and brochures commemorating the South Asian nation's independence, language movement, and development, drew well over 5,000 foreign visitors and locals, the Daily Sun reports.

According to the World Weather Attribution reports, these countries are combating significant outbreaks of cholera, waterborne illnesses and risks of severe food insecurity between the current and forthcoming rainy seasons.

The severe weather challenges across the Southern African countries have been linked to El Niño.

What is El Niño?

El Niño is a climate pattern characterised by the unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It is the "warm phase" of a larger phenomenon called the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). El Niño events can significantly alter global weather patterns, affecting temperatures and precipitation across various regions.

The phenomenon was first recognised by fishers off the coast of Peru who noticed the arrival of unusually warm water around Christmas time, hence the name "El Niño," meaning "the little boy" or "Christ Child" in Spanish.

During El Niño, the trade winds that typically blow from east to west across the Pacific weaken or even reverse direction. This change disrupts the normal upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water, leading to warmer sea surface temperatures. The effects of El Niño are widespread, influencing weather conditions such as increased rainfall in the southern United States and Peru, and drought in the western Pacific and sometimes in Southern Africa.

El Niño events occur irregularly, approximately every 2 to 7 years, and can last from 9 to 12 months . They are not predictable in the same way ocean tides are, but scientists use various measurements, including sea surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure differences, to monitor and forecast these events.

How is it affecting Southern Africa?

In Zambia, there is a 45% surge in food prices, exacerbating hunger. This is due to a drought caused by El Niño which has affected 9.8 million people, prompting a national disaster declaration in February due to delayed rains and failing crops. This happened across 84 districts in 8 provinces, and approximately 14.8 million individuals were impacted. A March assessment, according to Reliefweb , revealed alarming levels of food insecurity: 76% have limited food stocks, 5.7% have none, and 75.7% are resorting to severe coping measures. Crop damage ranges from 50% to 90%, and water scarcity has compelled 30% of the population to seek alternative sources. Concurrently, over 740 fatalities have been recorded due to Cholera, marking the deadliest outbreak in the country's history.

Nearly 4.4 million people have been impacted by El Niño in Malawi as a result of below-normal rainfall and high temperatures. This has severely affected maize across the nation. Other crops like rice, groundnuts, and soybeans have also experienced significant losses, posing threats to food security and livelihoods.

Additionally, more than 2.7 million Zimbabweans are facing urgent needs as a consequence of prolonged dry spells, leading to widespread crop failure in numerous regions. Government reports suggest that 26% of rural residents will experience shortages of cereals, intensifying an already severe hunger crisis. The situation is further complicated by economic strain and livestock losses, amidst a cholera outbreak that has claimed over 560 lives. Livestock diseases and water scarcity have only intensified these challenges.

Moroccan activist Abdul Rahman Zankad has been sentenced to five years in prison for criticising Morocco's decision to normalise relations with Israel. He was found guilty of insulting a constitutional institution and incitement as well as fined $5,000. According to Memo , authorities detained the activist affiliated with Morocco’s Al Adl Wal Ihsane in March 2024 following his Facebook posts discussing the conflict in Gaza and Rabat's recent move to forge diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv. The banned association Al Adl Wal Ihsane condemned the ruling, stating it reflects authoritarianism and tyranny in the state. The sentencing has raised concerns about restrictions on freedom of expression in Morocco.

Boat with 54 irregular migrants intercepted

The Royal Armed Forces intercepted a boat with 54 irregular migrants near Dakhla, Morocco on April 10. This is part of a larger trend, with approximately 6,600 individuals attempting to cross to the Canary Islands in January alone. The migrants were identified as sub-Saharan and Asian and were found 186 kilometres south of Dakhla, Morocco World News reveals . Despite efforts to curb migration, the Canary Islands route has seen a tenfold increase in irregular migrant arrivals in January, with Morocco, Algeria, and Bangladesh being the main origins of these migrants. The escalating unrest, economic stagnation, and political upheaval in the Sahel region have exacerbated the situation, prompting many desperate individuals to seek entry into Europe via the Spanish archipelago.

Unprecedented heat waves

Morocco is set to experience a heatwave and strong winds in multiple provinces, with temperatures expected to reach 35 to 42 degrees Celsius in some areas. The country has been investing in water infrastructure to mitigate the effects of water shortages caused by consecutive heat waves. The lack of rainfall has left dams at less than 40% capacity. However, the government is working to accelerate the construction of desalination plants, with several set to open in the coming years, Morocco World News suggests.

Video game market to witness 9% growth rate

Between 2024 and 2027, the video game industry in Morocco is anticipated to grow steadily at an annual rate of 9.39%. This growth trajectory is forecasted to lead to sales reaching $227.3 million in 2024 and escalating to $297.5 million by 2027, reports Morocco World News . With 8.4 million users expected in 2027, downloadable games represent the largest segment of the market. The industry's major revenue sources are in-game purchases, in-game consumer spending, and subscription fees. The market is catching the attention of global leaders in the gaming and e-sports sectors, with potential investment prospects being explored.

Drug trafficking attempts thwarted

On April 10, 2024, Moroccan national security forces, in collaboration with customs services stationed at the Beni Ansar centre in northeastern Morocco's Nador province, effectively intercepted an international trafficking attempt involving psychotropic drugs. They seized over 1,400 psychotropic tablets and arrested a 56-year-old Spanish national in connection with the case. According to Morocco World News , the suspect has been detained for a judicial inquiry overseen by the Judicial Police Brigade in Nador and the relevant public prosecutor's office. The ongoing investigations aim to determine whether this transnational criminal activity has consequences at local or global levels. To uphold social order, Moroccan police deploy additional forces for security operations during national holidays such as Eid Al Fitr.

Thailand is set to end a decade-old ban on surrogacy for foreign and gay and lesbian couples to promote medical tourism. The Thai Health Ministry's proposed revision aligns to make the Southeast Asian nation an appealing destination for tourists. As early as July, the Health Ministry plans to present a revised version of a law that outlaws overseas surrogacy to parliament, according to deputy director-general Arkhom Praditsuwan of the ministry's Department of Health Services Support. It will be the first change made to the ban since it was first imposed in 2015 in response to public outcry over the abandonment of a Down syndrome baby by an Australian couple, Hindustan Times reports.

Economic growth challenges

The World Bank and the Bank of Thailand have revised Thailand's growth forecast to 2.8% and 2.5% to 3.0%, respectively, due to weak exports, a delayed budget, and a reliance on tourism and private consumption for growth. Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin plans a 500 billion baht (about $13.65 billion) handout to stimulate the economy, Bangkok Post reported.

Budget deficit increase

Thailand plans to widen its 2025 budget deficit by $4.2 billion to stimulate economic growth. The cabinet's approval of this increase aims to finance a cash handout and spur the country's economy, according to Bloomberg . The director of the Budget Bureau, Chalermphol Pensoot, has stated that the budget deficit for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 will increase to 865.7 billion baht ($23.6 billion), or 152.7 billion baht higher than the initial target. The Thai official highlighted that this is a component of the revised medium-term budget framework that the Cabinet adopted on April 2.

Tourism resurgence

The first quarter of 2024 witnessed a significant increase in Thailand's tourism industry, with 9.4 million foreign tourists spending $12.4 billion. The government of the Southeast Asian nation aims to attract a record 40 million tourists this year and plans to legalise casinos as a means of generating revenue and creating jobs while promoting tourism through the "Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024, a celebration of the traditional Thai New Year, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage scheduled from 11-15 April in Bangkok.

Intense heatwave

Thailand is currently facing an intense heatwave , with temperatures exceeding 40°C. The Meteorological Department of Thailand issued a warning for intense heat and thunderstorms in ten provinces, advising citizens to take necessary precautions. The entire nation typically has hot weather during the day, interspersed with sporadic thunderstorms. It is anticipated that there will be intense heat in certain places, especially in the upper regions of Thailand.

What they said:

Maja Vahlberg, a risk consultant at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre said the consequences of the heatwave could have detrimental consequences. “Many people do not appreciate the dangers of heat [but high temperatures] are silent killers. They can be incredibly deadly for the elderly, people with existing health conditions, and outdoor workers. Roughly half of the West African population also lives in informal housing, rendering millions of people highly vulnerable to extreme heat,” she was quoted by The Guardian .

Australia's meteorology bureau warned of potential further intensification on Friday, not ruling out the possibility of Jasper becoming a Category 5 system.

Situated 1,195 kilometers (742 miles) northeast of Queensland and moving south at 9 kph (6 mph), Jasper's projected path suggests it could make landfall near Cairns, a city with a population of 250,000, by early Tuesday. However, forecasters caution that the storm's trajectory may still change.

The unusual early arrival of the cyclone coincides with El Niño, a climate pattern originating in the Pacific Ocean, known to reduce rainfall along Australia's east coast and impact global weather patterns.

Simultaneously, heat warnings have been issued across several states and territories, including New South Wales (NSW), where over 8 million people reside. Sydney, the capital of NSW, is forecasted to experience temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) on Saturday, exacerbated by strong, dry winds.

Some schools in Sydney closed on Friday, and parts of NSW were under a total fire ban due to an elevated risk of bushfires. In South Australia, a "catastrophic" fire rating was issued, indicating a high likelihood of significant loss of lives and properties if a fire occurs.

Extreme fire danger ratings were also in place in parts of New South Wales and Victoria. While the heat is expected to abate somewhat by the end of the weekend, Australia remains highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, characterized by frequent heatwaves, extreme rainfall, and devastating bushfires.

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