After Covid, next big killer could be heat waves

By Agence France-Presse

Jun 24, 2021 12:35 am

PARIS: Searing, unrelenting heat scorches large swathes of the Earth, killing millions who have no means to escape. Shade is useless, and shallow bodies of water are warmer than the blood coursing through people's veins.

This is a scene from a new sci-fi novel, but the suffocating horror it describes may be closer to science than fiction, according to a draft United Nations report that warns of dire consequences for billions if global warming continues unchecked.

The salt flats at Badwater Basin are seen inside Death Valley National Park on June 17, 2021 in Inyo County, California. Much of the western United States is braced for record heat waves this week, with approximately 50 million Americans placed on alert on June 15 for excessive temperatures, which could approach 120 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius) in some areas. The National Park Service warns of extreme summer heat, urging tourists to carry extra water and travel AFP Photo

Already have an active account? Log in here to continue reading.
Or
Subscribe to the Premium Subscription plan to access this subscriber-exclusive article.

Related Articles

US response in SCS key to countering Beijing

Wars, extreme weather top risks – WEF poll

Israeli Cabinet to vote on Gaza truce

PAF gets 10 Black Hawk choppers in fleet build-up

Senate OKs 4-year term for barangay, SK officials

Bill to amend licensure of teachers backed

Chavit finally formalizes withdrawal from Senate race