A Unequal Exposure to Rising Temperatures
Extreme heat affects people everywhere, but its consequences are often more severe in poorer nations. Many lie in already hot regions, where climate change is pushing temperatures higher and extending heatwaves. People who work outdoors—in agriculture, construction, and street markets—may have little choice but to keep working through dangerous conditions. Informal employment can mean no paid leave, shade, or reliable access to drinking water.
Housing also shapes exposure. In crowded neighborhoods, homes made from metal, concrete, or other heat-retaining materials can become dangerously hot. Limited tree cover and green space leave streets exposed to direct sunlight, while dense development traps warmth overnight. Those without air conditioning or dependable electricity have fewer ways to cool down and recover.
Health and Livelihoods Under Pressure
High temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, and can worsen existing heart and respiratory conditions. Older adults, young children, and people with disabilities are especially vulnerable. Health systems in lower-income countries may already face shortages of staff, equipment, and facilities, making it harder to prepare for a surge in heat-related illness. In remote areas, long travel times can further delay care.
The economic effects can deepen hardship. Heat reduces workers’ stamina and productivity, while crop damage and livestock losses threaten food supplies and farmers’ incomes. When families spend more on water, healthcare, or cooling, they may have less for other essentials. These pressures can reinforce poverty, particularly where social protection is limited.
Building Protection and Resilience
Reducing heat risks requires both immediate support and long-term investment. Early-warning systems, public cooling spaces, shaded areas, and clear guidance for employers can help protect people during heatwaves. Affordable access to clean water and healthcare is equally important.
Over time, cooler building designs, urban trees, improved public services, and reliable energy can reduce exposure. Adaptation plans work best when they prioritize communities facing the greatest risks and involve residents in decisions. Wealthier countries and international institutions can also help by providing climate finance and practical support. Extreme heat is a global challenge, but its burdens are not shared equally; effective responses must address that imbalance.
