During what should be a refreshing rainy season, Ghanaians are grappling with an intense and prolonged heatwave that has swept across the country, pushing temperatures far above the norm for this time of year.
In Accra, the bustling capital city typically tempered by ocean breezes, residents are enduring temperatures soaring well into the mid to high 30s°C (90s to 100s°F) which is a 26.67% increase from the average temperature in Ghana ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 31°C (88°F). The oppressive heat has become a formidable challenge for many. “It feels like being trapped in an oven,” remarked Adjoa, a local vendor, wiping sweat from her brow. “The heat drains your energy, making it hard to carry on with daily tasks.”
In an interview with Citi News, Professor Chris Gordon, the Founding Director of the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies at the University of Ghana, emphasized the urgent need for action to mitigate the effects of climate change, particularly as forecasts suggest that 2024 will surpass previous years in terms of temperature,”Well, unfortunately, 2024 is going to be hotter than 2023. That is the trend globally and nationally. Every year is hotter than the previous year on average”.
The impact of this heatwave goes beyond discomfort, with hospitals reporting a surge in cases related to heat exhaustion and dehydration. Dr.Mensah, a pediatrician at KATH in Kumasi noted, “We are seeing more patients, especially the elderly and young children, suffering from heat-related illnesses. Everyone must stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.”
Authorities are urging residents to take precautions such as staying indoors during peak heat hours, wearing light clothing, and drinking plenty of water. The Ghana Meteorological Agency attributes this unusual weather pattern to a combination of factors, including climate change and stalled weather systems.
The impact on livelihoods is profound. Farmers are struggling with crop failures and livestock health due to water shortages and heat stress. Outdoor workers, including vendors and construction laborers, face heightened risks of heat-related illnesses, affecting their ability to work.
In response to the crisis, Ghanaians are showing resilience. Many are adopting traditional cooling methods and supporting each other through community initiatives.
As the country navigates through this challenging period, the hope is for relief in the form of cooler temperatures and perhaps rain. This heatwave underscores the urgent need for broader climate adaptation measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events on vulnerable communities across Ghana.
