Tourists exploring popular destinations worldwide may face extreme heat conditions as El Nino poses a threat to visitors in cities. A recent study conducted by University of Oxford researchers revealed that a significant number of cities, including top tourist hubs like Bangkok, are susceptible to global temperature spikes brought on by El Nino. The study assessed 220 major cities globally, highlighting that approximately 95% of the most at-risk cities are located in South and Southeast Asia, as well as Sub-Saharan Africa.
Lead author Nethmi Jayaratne Kariyawasam emphasized that beyond exposure to high temperatures, factors such as vulnerability and limited coping mechanisms play a crucial role in urban heat risk. The study, published in Sustainable Cities and Societies, underscored the escalating frequency and intensity of heatwaves worldwide, leading to increased mortality, infrastructure challenges, and economic repercussions in urban areas.
With more than half of the global population residing in cities and projections indicating a rise to two-thirds by 2050, cities are becoming focal points of climate impact. The research ranked 220 cities with over 1 million inhabitants based on various risk factors, including demographic and socioeconomic conditions. Notably, UK cities, including London, were positioned lower on the vulnerability scale, with London identified as the least vulnerable city among those analyzed.
Co-author Jesus Lizana highlighted the significance of the study in providing a comprehensive assessment of urban heat risk globally. The findings offer valuable insights for prioritizing adaptation efforts and monitoring climate resilience on a global scale.