South Sudan braces for a scorching fortnight, closing schools in anticipation

In a proactive move against an impending heat wave, South Sudan shuts all educational institutions, urging indoor safety for children.

Deng Machol reports for the Associated Press.

In short:

• South Sudan's government mandates a temporary closure of all schools to combat the effects of an anticipated extreme heat wave, with temperatures expected to hit 113 Fahrenheit.
• The health and education ministries emphasize the importance of keeping children indoors during this period, threatening to revoke the registration of any schools that remain open.
• The country's vulnerability to climate change is highlighted by its history of extreme weather conditions, compounded by ongoing civil conflict and economic instability.

Key quote:

“Schools should be connected to the electricity grid” to enable the installation of air conditioners.

— Peter Garang, resident of Juba

Why this matters:

Heat waves have emerged as a formidable challenge, particularly for communities in developing countries. These regions, often lacking the infrastructure and resources to effectively combat extreme temperatures, face a disproportionate burden.

Hot temperatures may be bad for brains, even young and healthy ones.