Record-breaking temperatures in Asia: Thailand issues extreme heat warning | World News

Authorities in Thailand have warned residents across the country, including the capital Bangkok, to avoid going outside amid a record-breaking heatwave. Much of Asia has reported extreme heat this month, with Bangladesh and India also reporting high temperatures. Extreme heat in Asia has also led to a surge in demand for electricity, causing power outages and shortages for millions, according to Reuters.

In Bangkok’s Bagna district, the temperature reached 42 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department. Authorities warned residents to avoid any outdoor activity. “Sometimes, I hide in the 7-11 … to escape the heat,” a Bangkok resident told Reuters.

Thailand’s disaster prevention and mitigation department said that the temperature in at least 28 provinces will exceed 40 degrees Celsius in the coming week.

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said the extreme heat had led to record electricity consumption, with the country using more than 39,000 megawatts on April 6, surpassing the previous record of 32,000 megawatts set in April last year.

Expert Mathinee Yucharoen told Reuters: “What is happening now is caused by climate change, affecting anomalies (weather) and a phenomenon called extreme weather.”