Record-Breaking Heat Wave in West Africa Linked to Climate Change

A recent study confirms that the extreme temperatures experienced in West Africa, which resulted in numerous fatalities, could not have occurred without human-induced climate change.

Temperatures soared to historic highs in West Africa during late March and early April, with Mali recording its highest ever temperature.
The heat wave coincided with Ramadan, exacerbating the health risks for many who were fasting.
Power outages and urban heat island effects intensified the impact of the heat, particularly in Mali and Burkina Faso.
Scientific analysis indicates that such extreme weather events are now more likely due to global warming, with temperatures up to 1.5 degrees Celsius higher because of human activity.
Infrastructure challenges, including unreliable electricity and water supplies, worsened the situation, highlighting the need for adaptive measures in response to increasing heat extremes.