Millions of students forced to stay home as Southeast Asia experiences prolonged heat wave

Southeast Asia is currently in the grip of a devastating heatwave, with record-high temperatures causing chaos across the region. In the Philippines, millions of students were forced to stay home as authorities cancelled in-person classes due to the scorching weather. The advice for everyone has been to avoid outdoor activities and stay hydrated, with special caution given to the young and elderly.

Cambodia is experiencing its highest temperatures in 170 years, with forecasts predicting temperatures reaching up to 43 degrees Celsius. Myanmar is also facing record-breaking temperatures, with some towns hitting 48.2 degrees Celsius, breaking a previous record set in 1968.

The heatwave has raised fears of water shortages, crop damage, and power outages in the region. In the Philippines, the Department of Education has ordered students to switch to home-based and online learning to protect them from the health risks posed by the extreme heat.

Thailand has also been hit hard by the heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 44 degrees Celsius in some areas. The Department of Disease Control reported that at least 30 people have died from heat stroke so far this year.

While the number of heat-related deaths is on the rise globally, the situation in Asia remains unclear. In the Philippines, at least 34 people have fallen ill due to the extreme heat, with six reported deaths. Bangladesh has also seen a spike in heat-related fatalities, with at least 20 deaths reported in a five-day period earlier this month.

Despite the extreme conditions, Cambodia has reported few if any heat-related fatalities. Officials are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of the population during this unprecedented heatwave.