There’s a Growing Threat of Extreme Heat to Children

Nearly half a billion children are now experiencing extreme heat at twice the rate seen 60 years ago, according to a recent UNICEF analysis. This report, the first of its kind, highlights a dramatic increase in the number of extremely hot days—defined as temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F)—that children face globally.

The analysis compared temperature data from the 1960s with recent averages from 2020 to 2024. It revealed that about 466 million children, or roughly 20% of the global child population, live in areas where extremely hot days have doubled over the past six decades. Notably, children in West and Central Africa are particularly affected, with the region experiencing the most significant increases. In countries like Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Sudan, children endure more than 200 hot days annually.

The impact of extreme heat on children is profound. Their bodies heat up more quickly, sweat less efficiently, and cool down slower than adults, making them more susceptible to heat stress and heatstroke. Extreme heat can also exacerbate health issues, including malnutrition and diseases like malaria and dengue fever, which thrive in high temperatures. Education is another critical area affected by rising temperatures. Increased heat often leads to school closures, disrupting learning and affecting children’s academic progress. For instance, South Sudan recently closed schools in anticipation of a severe heatwave.

Experts urge immediate action to address this escalating crisis. David Knaute, a UNICEF climate specialist, emphasizes the need for governments to control temperature rises and improve climate resilience. Meanwhile, Shruti Agarwal from Save the Children advocates for better-equipped health and education systems to Support children during extreme heat events.

UNICEF calls for global climate action to protect children’s rights to a healthy environment, urging nations to reduce emissions and meet climate commitments. The time to act is now.

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