Iran Faces Unprecedented Heatwave: UN Scientist Reveals Dire Consequences and Urgent Solutions Needed

Record-Breaking Temperatures

This summer, several provinces in Iran have experienced record-breaking heat, with temperatures soaring past 50 degrees Celsius. Such extreme conditions have forced local authorities to close offices and cut down on operating hours to manage power consumption.

Residents in regions like Khuzestan and Kerman have endured relentless heat, making it nearly impossible for many to work and earn their livelihood. The situation has stretched the healthcare system to its limits as heat-related illnesses surge.

In Tehran, the capital, temperatures frequently exceed 40 degrees Celsius, causing widespread power outages. These outages leave vulnerable populations, including the elderly and sick, without access to air conditioning, putting their health at serious risk.

Climate experts have noted that Iran is heating up faster and more intensely than the global average, with temperatures rising by 2.7 degrees Celsius over the past three decades, compared to the global increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

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Environmental Strain and Mismanagement

Iran’s location in one of the world’s hottest regions makes it especially susceptible to climate change. Decades of poor water management and unsustainable development have only exacerbated the situation.

Once-thriving lakes and rivers have dried up, leading to severe water shortages. The country now faces a vicious cycle of droughts, floods, and worsening air pollution, further stressing the environment.

Experts are calling for immediate action to address these compounded crises. Amir Aghakouchak, a professor at the University of California, Irvine, describes heatwaves as “silent killers” that devastate large areas slowly but surely.

Significant issues include:

• Increased susceptibility to wildfires
• Loss of biodiversity
• Heightened public health risks

Fires Fueled by Heatwaves

Over the last three months, Iran has seen more than 50 wildfires in its forests, a troubling trend attributed to rising temperatures. These fires have devastated large areas, including the Zagros Mountain forests.

Mojtaba Sadegh, an associate professor at Boise State University, notes that heatwaves “suck water out of soil and vegetation,” creating ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread.

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Local environmental groups and volunteers have often been the first responders, containing fires in areas like the Marivan forest. This highlights the urgent need for better firefighting infrastructure and preparedness.

The importance of the Zagros forests cannot be overstated. They are a vital part of Iran’s biodiversity and economy but face increasing threats from deforestation and climate change.

Global Urgency for Climate Action

In July, the UN Secretary-General called for immediate action to combat the global “heat crisis” after the world experienced its hottest days on record multiple times in a row.

Experts emphasize that reducing CO2 and methane emissions is crucial to mitigating these extreme heat events. Astrid Puentes, a UN Special Rapporteur, highlights the need for a just energy transition and the phasing out of fossil fuels.

While many countries have submitted carbon-reduction plans under the Paris Agreement, Iran remains one of the few that has not ratified the treaty. This raises concerns about its commitment to climate action.

Despite economic sanctions, climate change is a pressing issue that Iran cannot afford to ignore. Experts warn that without immediate action, the country will face a higher risk of severe heatwaves, impacting human health and water availability.

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