243 million children in Asia at risk from ‘lethal threat’ of heatwaves: UN

Unicef data showed over 243 million children across the Pacific and East Asia were estimated to be affected by heatwaves, putting them at risk of heat-related illnesses and death.

Several countries in the region are currently smouldering in the summer heat, with temperatures nearing record levels as they regularly hit over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Local forecasters are predicting steeper rises in the coming weeks.

Around 40 people die from heat-related illnesses annually, according to the Thai Ministry of Health.

According to the Unicef report, children are more at risk than adults as they are less able to regulate their body temperature.

“Children are more vulnerable than adults to the effects of climate change, and excess heat is a potentially lethal threat to them,” said Debora Comini, Director of Unicef Regional Office for East Asia and the Pacific.

The report said heatwaves and high humidity levels – commonly experienced in the region – can have a deadly effect, as the heat will “hinder the body’s natural cooling mechanisms.”

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“We must be on high alert this summer to protect children and vulnerable communities from worsening heatwaves and other climate shocks,” Comini said.

The UN projected that over two billion children are expected to be exposed to heatwaves by 2050.