Environment News

Africa’s Extreme Heat Crisis

August 26 , 2026 11 hrs 0 min 5 0

A study found that extreme heat is worsening health inequalities in African informal settlements.
The systematic review examined 21 studies published between 2010 and 2024, selected from 96,608 records across 11 academic databases.
Studies covered South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Cameroon, Egypt, Nigeria and Ghana; poor housing, overcrowding, limited water and weak infrastructure increased heat vulnerability.
Heat-related effects included dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, headaches, sleep problems, respiratory illness, mental-health problems and other diseases.
The study highlights the need for adaptation measures that address both extreme-heat exposure and underlying socioeconomic conditions in vulnerable communities.