In April 2024, the world experienced its hottest April on record, with the average global temperature being 2.38°F (about 1.32°C) higher than the 20th-century average. This record-breaking warmth is part of an 11-month streak of unprecedented high temperatures, making 2024 likely to be the hottest year on record.
In particular, Metro Manila recorded its highest temperature ever at 38.8°C, causing significant concern within the community. Such extreme heat is affecting various climate indicators worldwide, including rising ocean temperatures, glacial melt, and rising sea levels.
According to a report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), 2023 was the hottest year on record, leading to frequent extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and wildfires. These events are causing economic losses and humanitarian crises, exacerbating issues like food insecurity, displacement, and ecosystem destruction.
Addressing climate change has become one of humanity’s greatest challenges. Efforts to combat it include the expansion of renewable energy sources and the implementation of early warning systems to mitigate the impact of climate disasters.
In 2024, a severe heatwave in Saudi Arabia resulted in the deaths of at least 550 Hajj pilgrims. Temperatures soared to 51.8°C in Mecca, causing numerous fatalities, predominantly among Egyptian pilgrims, with 323 reported deaths due to heatstroke. Additional deaths were reported among pilgrims from Jordan and Iran.
The Saudi government advised pilgrims to use umbrellas, stay hydrated, and avoid peak sun exposure. However, the nature of the Hajj pilgrimage, requiring prolonged outdoor activities, left many vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
