Global hotspots that topped 50°C in 2024

September 9, 2024 - Climate change is causing some parts of the world to endure temperatures in excess of 50°C, which can often feel hotter due to high humidity caused by record sea temperatures.

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In July, with temperatures in the 40°C range and humidity levels of 80% or higher, Dubai, UAE, had a temperature that felt like 62°C by noon, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.

But the Persian Gulf (aka Arabian Gulf) is just one of several regions around the world learning how to cope with extreme heat.

In India, for example, authorities reported more than 40,000 cases of heatstroke during a prolonged heatwave, and at least 110 deaths.

In Saudi Arabia in June, 1,301 pilgrims died after walking in temperatures that reached nearly 50°C during the hajj.

Additionally, rising humidity from record high sea temperatures means the human body is being pushed to breaking point in many areas around the world.

Record sea temperatures contribute to high humidity levels that affect our ability to cool down through sweating.

Studies suggest that after six hours of exposure to temperatures of more than 40°C and a humidity level of 75%, humans lose the ability to cool themselves down.