Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mimi Mefo Info
Published on 2024-03-29 17:10:11
Christian Njigo Chwankam, Expert in Climate Change and Spatio-Temporal Dynamics, analyzes the phenomenon of intense heatwaves experienced by the city of Douala.
For the past few days, Douala has been experiencing heatwaves reaching up to 50°C. What could be the cause of this unprecedented level of heat?
The intense heatwaves currently experienced by Douala, with temperatures exceeding normal levels, are indeed very unusual and can be attributed to several factors:
1. Climate Change: Global warming is the main cause of the increase in extreme temperatures worldwide. Douala is not exempt from this phenomenon.
2. Urban Heat Island Effect: The concentration of buildings and impermeable surfaces (pavement, asphalt, concrete, etc.) in urban areas traps heat and creates a microclimate that is hotter than the surrounding rural areas. Douala, being a large city, is particularly affected by this effect.
3. Deforestation: The cutting down of trees, which absorb CO2 and contribute to climate regulation, may also play a role in the increase in temperatures. Douala has experienced significant deforestation in recent decades.
Are there no other factors that could be causing this phenomenon?
Indeed, we have the phenomenon of El Niño, which is a very complex climatic phenomenon characterized by abnormal warming of the surface waters of the equatorial Pacific Ocean. This warming of the waters leads to atmospheric disturbances that have global repercussions, particularly in equatorial regions and on the African continent, including Cameroon and Douala in particular. The effects of El Niño in equatorial regions can be varied and significant, including increased drought, disruptions in precipitation, and especially an increase in temperatures, as is currently the case in Douala, where higher than normal temperatures are observed. This could worsen the urban heat island effect and increase the risks related to heatwaves.
In conclusion, the intense heatwaves experienced by Douala are a concerning phenomenon likely caused by a combination of factors, including climate change.
Should we expect the worst in the coming years?
It is difficult to predict with certainty the evolution of the climate in Douala in the coming years. However, several scientific studies, such as those conducted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, indicate that climate change will continue to cause an increase in temperatures and extreme weather events, such as heatwaves. It is important to consider several factors:
1. Trajectory of Climate Change: The extent of temperature increase in Douala will depend on the efforts made globally by governments and local authorities to implement activities related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. If emissions continue to rise, heatwaves are likely to become more frequent and intense.
2. Adaptation and Mitigation: Measures taken by local authorities and the population to adapt to climate change and reduce risks related to heatwaves can also influence the situation’s evolution.
What are the conceivable scenarios?
Considering the above, two possible scenarios can be envisaged.
1. Pessimistic Scenario: If no action is taken to combat climate change and adapt to its effects, heatwaves in Douala could become even more intense and frequent, with serious consequences for human health and the economy.
2. Optimistic Scenario: If significant efforts are made by competent authorities and even the population of Douala to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement adaptation measures, it is possible to limit the impact of heatwaves and protect the environment and the economy.
What do you recommend as a solution to try to avoid this phenomenon?
Facing the intense heatwaves hitting Douala and likely to worsen with climate change, it is crucial to implement sustainable solutions both to mitigate the phenomenon and adapt to its effects. Here are some recommendations:
• Implementing climate change mitigation activities:
– Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Transitioning to renewable energy sources (solar energy), installing solar panels on public buildings, improving energy efficiency, and developing public transportation to reduce pollution from two-wheeled vehicles.
– Protecting forests and enhancing carbon stocks: Trees absorb CO2 and help cool the climate. It is essential to combat deforestation and significantly increase green spaces in Douala.
• Implementing climate change adaptation activities:
– Sustainable urban planning: Promoting and enforcing green infrastructure (parks, gardens, green roofs) that contribute to cooling the ambient air.
– Improving buildings: Governments and municipal authorities should ensure compliance with cadastral standards in terms of housing construction, creating green spaces, planting trees in each residential property, implementing construction and renovation techniques to limit heat absorption.
• Implementing awareness programs: It is crucial to promote responsible individual behaviors to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, such as promoting ecological waste management, encouraging waste reduction, and adopting responsible consumption practices.
In conclusion, there is no miraculous solution to the heatwaves in Douala. It is necessary to combine climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. The success of this fight will depend on the mobilization of all stakeholders and the implementation of a local and coherent strategy.
Interview conducted by Joseph Essama.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
