Record-breaking heatwave in Asia leads to new national temperature highs in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, causing worry among scientists.

In a concerning turn of events, Asia is currently experiencing a historic heatwave, breaking temperature records and challenging climate norms.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Asia had its second-warmest March on record in 2023. This heatwave is being considered one of the most brutal heat events the world has ever witnessed.

The heatwave's effects were particularly severe in Thailand, where April 2023 was the second hottest month on record, with an average temperature of 31.0°C. The country also experienced a deficit in average rainfall of -56%. However, no specific meteorological or research institution is mentioned as having recorded the highest temperatures in Thailand in April 2023.

The UN has warned that the world is already on track to warm well above 2°C, and this heatwave is a stark reminder of the consequences of global warming.

The heatwave has also affected other countries in the region. Hong Kong had its fourth-warmest March on record in 2023, and Pakistan had its sixth-warmest. India is experiencing record-high daytime temperatures, about 4°C to 5°C above the seasonal average.

Farmers in various countries are starting their workdays earlier and finishing before 10am to avoid the hottest hours of the day. This is a significant change in their routine, as they traditionally work from dawn till dusk.

The heatwave has also reached the western Mediterranean, where regions including Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Algeria have been battling record-shattering temperatures last week. A heatwave of this magnitude in the western Mediterranean should have a 1-in-400 chance of occurring each year, according to World Weather Attribution.

The worst ever experienced heatwave in Asia was reported in April 2023, according to climatologist Maximiliano Herrera. This heatwave has been particularly severe in countries like Vietnam and Laos. On Monday, temperatures in Hoi Xuan, Vietnam reached a record-high of 44.1°C (111.38°F), and authorities have advised the population to remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day. On Sunday, temperatures in Luang Prabang, Laos reached a record-high of 43.5°C (110.3°F).

Similarly, on Sunday, temperatures in Bangkok, Thailand reached a record-high of 41°C (105.8°F). And just last week, Cambodia set a new national May record with 41.6°C (106.9°F) readings.

The heatwave has also taken a toll on human lives. At least 13 people have died from heat stroke in Mumbai, India last month.

Greenhouse gas emissions are currently at an all-time high of 424.26 ppm, and global temperatures are at least 1.1°C higher compared to pre-industrial levels. This heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Record-breaking heatwave in Asia leads to new national temperature highs in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, causing worry among scientists.