Singapore Records More High Heat Stress Days as El Niño Intensifies
Expanded monitoring and strengthening El Niño conditions point to hotter, drier months ahead.
Singapore recorded 51 high heat stress days in the first half of the year, with more than 50 of these occurring between April and June. The Singapore Meteorological Service expects the second half of the year to be even hotter as El Niño strengthens, bringing below-average rainfall, more hot nights, and prolonged periods of heat across the region.
According to Prof. Steve Yim, Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Health (CCEH) at NTU, while long-term climate warming is contributing to rising heat stress, the increase in recorded high heat stress days also reflects the expansion of Singapore's monitoring network from 9 to 26 sensors. The enhanced network provides a more comprehensive understanding of localized heat stress conditions, improving the country's ability to monitor and respond to heat risks.
Prof. Yim also noted that January's exceptionally dry conditions and the increasing number of hot nights in recent months are important indicators of changing climate patterns. Looking ahead, he cautioned that the second half of the year is likely to bring hotter days, warmer nights, and longer dry spells, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated, checking heat stress forecasts before outdoor activities, wearing breathable clothing, and taking regular breaks in shaded areas.
Read the full article at: Lianhe Zaobao.
