heatwaves – Darem Placer

A UNICEF report shows how different climate hazards are affecting children in many parts of the world.

Around 2.4 billion children live in the world today, and 1.1 billion are exposed to at least three climate hazards at the same time.

UNICEF studied eight major climate hazards:

• Coastal flooding
• River flooding
• Drought
• Tropical storms
• Heatwaves
• Extreme heat
• Wildfires
• Sandstorms

The most common triple threat is:

• Drought
• Extreme heat (above 35°C)
• Heatwaves

This combination affects about 296 million children worldwide.

UNICEF says children are among the most vulnerable to climate change because their bodies and development are still in critical stages.

These hazards can lead to:

• Hunger and food insecurity
• Water shortages
• Health problems
• Interrupted education
• Displacement of families
• Increased poverty

Countries with the largest numbers of children facing this triple threat:

• Nigeria: 74 million
• Pakistan: 34 million
• India: 32 million

Climate hazards affect children on a large scale:

• 2.3 billion children are exposed to at least one climate hazard.
• 2 billion are exposed to at least two hazards.
• 364 million face at least four hazards.

About 123,000 children are exposed to seven or more climate hazards, with Myanmar accounting for around 46,000 of them.

The number of children exposed to three or more climate risks has risen sharply over the last 20 years.

The worst-affected regions are:

• Sub-Saharan Africa
• The Sahel region
• Parts of South Asia

Chad, a country in Africa, is one of the hardest-hit nations, with more than 95% of children exposed to at least three climate hazards.

Small island nations face greater risks because of:

• Limited freshwater supplies
• Dependence on imported goods
• Few options for relocation after disasters

UNICEF is calling on governments to invest in:

• Protection against climate impacts
• Stronger schools and hospitals
• Water and sanitation systems
• Disaster preparedness
• Emissions reduction efforts

As ordinary citizens, we can:

• Conserve water whenever possible
• Reduce energy consumption at home
• Minimize waste and recycle properly
• Plant and care for trees and other vegetation
• Support local environmental efforts in our communities
• Teach children the importance of caring for the environment

Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and dream in a safe environment. The choices we make today can help preserve the simple sounds of childhood, from laughter in schoolyards to songs carried by future generations.

Source: UN News, June 15, 2026.