Climate Crisis Looms Over 480 Million in Arab Region

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warned Thursday that about 480 million people in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula face intensifying and in some places unsurvivable heat, as well as drought, famine, and the risk of mass displacement due to global warming. The 22 Arab region countries covered in the WMO's new State of the Climate report produce about a quarter of the world's oil, yet directly account for only 5 to 7 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions from their own territories. According to WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, extreme heat is pushing communities in the region to their physical limits. "Droughts show no sign of letting up in one of the world's most water-stressed regions, but at the same time, parts of it have been devastated by record rains and flooding," she said. Saulo emphasized that human health, ecosystems, and economies cannot cope with extended spells of more than 50 degrees Celsius. "It is simply unsustainable," she added. The region's unique position as both a linchpin of the global fossil-fuel economy and one of the most vulnerable geographic areas has been highlighted by the WMO report. The paradox is rooted in the fact that while the Arab region produces a significant portion of the world's oil, its own greenhouse gas emissions are relatively low compared to other regions. This has led to concerns about the region's ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change. The WMO report comes as the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change. The region's vulnerability to climate-related disasters has been exacerbated by its limited resources and infrastructure. The report highlights the need for urgent action to address the region's climate risks and to support the development of climate-resilient infrastructure. International organizations and experts have expressed concern about the region's climate situation. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that the region's climate risks could have far-reaching consequences for global stability and security. "The Arab region is facing a perfect storm of climate-related challenges, including drought, heatwaves, and flooding," said a UNDP spokesperson. "It is essential that we take immediate action to support the region's efforts to adapt to climate change and to build resilience to its impacts." The WMO report is the latest in a series of warnings about the region's climate situation. In recent years, the region has experienced some of the most severe heatwaves on record, with temperatures reaching as high as 54 degrees Celsius in some areas. The report highlights the need for urgent action to address the region's climate risks and to support the development of climate-resilient infrastructure. As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, the WMO report serves as a stark reminder of the need for urgent action to support the Arab region's efforts to adapt to climate change. The report's findings are expected to inform international discussions and decision-making on climate change, including the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2025.