New Delhi. Climate scientists have issued a serious warning regarding the powerful El Nino developing in the Pacific Ocean. According to a new estimate, more than 4.51 lakh people may die worldwide due to the additional heat associated with this event in the next six months. This estimate is in addition to the already increasing heat-related deaths due to climate change.
According to information released by the Climate Impact Lab of the University of Chicago, the effect of El Nino can be felt from Indonesia, India and Nigeria to America. Scientists have warned that along with extreme heat, events like drought, forest fires and floods can also increase human losses.
In which areas there is more danger?
The assessment tried to estimate the potential deaths from excess heat differently for different regions. According to scientists, the purpose of such assessment is to identify those areas where timely preparation can save lives.
For this, steps like better early warning system of extreme heat, establishment of cooling centres, provision of additional staff in hospitals and medical facilities during heatwaves and safety of workers working in the open can be taken.
El Nino is being described as extraordinary
According to scientists, the sea surface temperature in the tropical part of the Pacific Ocean has become much higher than normal. Due to this, the effect of heat can become more serious amidst the already rising temperatures at the global level.
Michael Greenstone, a University of Chicago professor and co-founder of the Climate Impact Lab, who co-authored the assessment, described the figure of 4.51 lakh potential deaths as extremely high. He said that it can be difficult to understand such a huge figure, because behind it are the lives of families, children, elderly and common people.
What is El Nino?
El Nino is a natural climate phenomenon occurring in the Pacific Ocean. In this, the sea surface temperature of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean becomes higher than normal. Due to this, there may be changes in the general pattern of temperature, rain and winds in different parts of the world. Its effect is not the same in every area. Extreme heat and drought conditions may occur in some areas, while the risk of heavy rains, floods and storms may increase in other areas.
Impact on agriculture and health also
According to scientists, the effects of El Nino cannot be limited to temperature alone. Changes in weather patterns can also affect agricultural production, food security, health and the economy. Wildfires and drought events may also increase risk in some areas.
However, scientists have clarified that the figure of 4.51 lakh deaths is not a definite prediction, but an assessment of the potential threat. Its objective is to help governments and local administrations to prepare in time. Climate scientists say that it is not possible to completely prevent the effects of El Nino, but its human losses can be reduced through better forecasting, timely warnings and health preparedness.
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