S2E10: Red alert! Majority in Asia-Pacific at increasing risk from heatwaves, says Red Cross

Jan 20, 2025

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With global warming increasing heat risks across the world, early warning systems and early action can be a lifesaver, especially in densely populated Asia-Pacific.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

More than six billion people are now exposed to heat waves and this will increase in coming years because of climate change.

And the Asia-Pacific region is at great risk because of its high population densities and exposure to heat, says Dr Luis Rodriguez, lead for climate and environmental crises for the Asia-Pacific at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

He tells The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast the Asia-Pacific region has 66 per cent of the global population at risk of the impacts of heat waves. He explains why it is so important to have early warning systems and early action. Doing so can save many lives.

Take a listen to the latest Green Pulse episode to learn more about the risks from extreme heat and efforts to reduce the danger.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:31 Why is the Red Cross sounding the alert on heat in the Asia-Pacific?

6:22 How are the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies raising the alarm?

9:20 What are some of the best solutions for dealing with the growing risks from heat?

15:18 Just like other hazards, reaching everyone at risk is a “monumental challenge”.

24:47 What are the key takeaways? What can individuals do to prepare for extreme heat?

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Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)