The El Nino phenomenon has been affecting several Asian countries such as India, Thailand, and the Philippines, causing high temperatures that are expected to impact agriculture in the upcoming months
Despite the recent rainfalls, parts of Thailand have still experienced temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius, particularly in the central and northern regions that are currently facing their driest and warmest month before the monsoon season.
The Thai Meteorological Department has advised people, particularly minors and the elderly, to take precautions against the risk of heat stroke. Myanmar has also experienced temperatures reaching a maximum of 42 degrees Celsius, which is concerning due to the poor power infrastructure and lack of adequate air conditioning in many homes and buildings.
Laos also recorded a record temperature of 42.7 degrees in Luang Prabang last week. Meteorologists have warned that the El Nino phenomenon, along with the effects of the climate crisis, could lead to serious losses in agriculture during the monsoon season in several parts of Asia.
Yunnan, a southern province in China, has issued an orange alert for a drought after recording its lowest rainfall in about 10 years, which could lead to energy rationing in the local aluminium production sector.
Countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Malaysia have also been suffering from high air pollution, largely due to the burning of crop stubble in agricultural lands.
In Nepal, there are concerns about the outbreak of fires in various parts of the country, which has contributed to Kathmandu being one of the most polluted cities in the world, according to the IQAir portal.
