Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

Mali Heat Wave Raises Concerns Amid Political Instability

Children play inside a river to cool off from a blazing sun in Bamako, Mali, Thursday, April, 18, 2024. On Thursday, temperatures in Bamako reached 44 degrees Celsius (111 Fahrenheit) and weather fore

Street vendors in Mali's capital of Bamako are facing a dire situation as an unprecedented heat wave sweeps across the region, causing a surge in fatalities. The scorching temperatures, reaching as high as 44 degrees Celsius (111 Fahrenheit), have taken a toll on the population, with reports of over 100 deaths in just the first four days of the month at Gabriel-Touré Hospital.

The extreme weather conditions have particularly affected the elderly population, although exact statistics are unavailable due to restrictions imposed by the country's military rulers. The Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre estimates that the death toll from the heat wave could be in the hundreds, if not thousands.

Children in Mali are also at risk, with 1 million under the age of 5 facing acute malnutrition due to various factors, including the ongoing political instability and limited access to humanitarian aid. The situation is further exacerbated by the recent surge in illnesses among children, such as meningitis and diarrhea.

To mitigate the impact of the heat wave, Mali's military rulers have implemented measures such as shortening the school day and adjusting working hours. However, many residents, like 25-year-old driver Amadou Coulibaly, are forced to choose between their health and earning a living.

Elderly population most affected by scorching temperatures.
Unprecedented heat wave in Bamako, Mali causes over 100 deaths.
Children at risk of malnutrition and illnesses due to political instability.
Military rulers implement measures to mitigate heat wave impact.
Economic repercussions seen with foreign investors leaving and businesses struggling.

The economic repercussions of the heat wave are also evident, with foreign investors leaving Mali and businesses struggling due to power cuts and fuel shortages. Despite the challenges, individuals like 30-year-old welder Somaila Traoré continue to work under difficult conditions to meet deadlines.

An analysis by the World Weather Attribution highlights the role of human-induced climate change in exacerbating extreme weather events like the current heat wave in Mali. The study warns that without significant global action to address climate change, such events will become more frequent and dangerous in the future.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further escalation of extreme weather events.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.