An Oxford University study has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of missing global climate targets for African countries, particularly Uganda, South Sudan, and the

Democratic Republic of Congo. These nations are at high risk of experiencing extreme heat if urgent actions are not taken to address climate change.

The report underscores the critical need to adhere to climate targets to limit global warming, as Africa would encounter a substantial rise in heat exposure if temperatures increase by 2ºC. The study focused on "cooling degree days," a widely accepted metric used to assess cooling demands on specific days. Worryingly, Africa registered the highest historical cooling requirements between 2009 and 2018.

In a scenario where climate targets are not met, Africa is predicted to witness the most significant temperature increase, resulting in a surge in cooling demands under a 2.0ºC scenario. In addition to Uganda, other countries facing heightened risks include the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Mali, South Sudan, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Cameroon. The research employed sophisticated modeling techniques, analyzing the world in 60 km grids every six hours to ensure precise temperature averages.

However, the impact of escalating temperatures extends beyond these nations, as countries unaccustomed to extreme heat will also face severe repercussions. Dr. Radhika Khosla, leader of the Oxford Martin Programme on the Future of Cooling, emphasizes that this situation will place tremendous strain on Africa's socio-economic development and energy infrastructure. She underscores the urgent need for further research to address the growing threat specific to Africa, which has not received adequate attention compared to other regions.

Dr. Nicole Miranda, a Senior Researcher at the University of Oxford, highlights that countries already grappling with heatwaves and extreme temperatures will experience even harsher conditions if global mean temperatures rise from 1.5ºC to 2.0ºC. Central African countries, including the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, and Mali, are projected to endure the most significant impact, with over 250 additional cooling degree days.

The consequences of extreme heat are alarming and life-threatening, with risks including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and a higher likelihood of fatalities, especially among vulnerable populations.

As the report sheds light on the dire situation in Africa, it underlines the urgency of international collaboration and climate justice. Dr. Khosla stresses that Africa bears a disproportionate burden of a problem it did not cause, emphasizing the need for equitable and fair climate action. Addressing the challenges faced by African nations will require collective efforts and a commitment to mitigating the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions. Photo by j-b.d, Wikimedia commons.