Summary/Abstract
The April 2023 humid heatwaves in South Asia caused a sudden increase in heat stroke cases, roads melting, and a strong increase in electricity demand in Bangladesh, India, Thailand, and Laos. This review article synthesizes peer-reviewed research that uses climate modeling and observational data to evaluate how human-induced climate change altered the likelihood and intensity of the heatwave event. The findings show that the global increase in temperatures since pre-industrial times has significantly increased both the likelihood and severity of extreme heat events in the area affected. The research also highlights that exposure and vulnerability to these dangerous temperatures are intensified by societal disadvantage based on factors such as socioeconomic status, religion, caste, gender, migration, and living conditions. On top of this, factors such as air pollution, the urban heat island effect, and wildfires further compound health impacts, particularly among the most vulnerable populations.