First-ever Bangladesh Red Crescent activation of early action protocol for heatwave

By the Climate Centre

(A version of this story appeared first yesterday on the Anticipation Hub website.) 

The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society last Sunday for the first time activated its early action protocol for heatwave, enabling anticipatory actions in the capital, Dhaka, before the worst impacts of the current extreme heat were likely to be felt by people at heightened risk.

Bangladesh Meteorological Department data shows a “severe-to-very-severe” heatwave is affecting some districts while at least “mild-to-moderate” heat is affecting most of them.

The IFRC-DREF is sending just under 500,000 Swiss francs to support actions that will assist 124,000 vulnerable people.

Local and international forecasts see continued extreme heat until 30 April, with temperatures nudging 40°C for at least two days straight. 

Cooling stations

The anticipatory actions that were getting underway (photo) across Dhaka include early warning and awareness, drinking water, and tips on how to spot dehydration.

Very vulnerable groups such as the elderly and people who work outdoors will have access to Red Crescent cooling stations in three strategic locations, and additional ambulance support.

Climate Centre Acting Director Julie Arrighi, who leads its work on heat, said today: “Rapid response during extreme-heat events is crucial to reducing health impacts, including death.

“This vital funding mechanism [IFRC-DREF] is helping the Bangladesh Red Crescent to expand crucial services such as raising public awareness about the risks of extreme heat risks, and increasing emergency health services and access to drinking water.”

Chattogram city Red Crescent branch volunteers Tuesday distributing cold drinks to outdoor workers, rickshaw drivers, traffic police and pedestrians. The IFRC-DREF is sending just under 500,000 Swiss francs to support heatwave actions that will assist 124,000 vulnerable people in Dhaka. (Photo: BDRS)