Mali Heatwave Claims Over 100 Lives, Mortuaries Reach Full Capacity

An extreme heatwave in Mali has claimed the lives of over 100 people, with mortuaries now struggling to accommodate the influx of bodies.

Reports indicate that last month, temperatures soared to unprecedented levels, reaching a scorching 48.5°C in the town of Kayes, marking a record high for Africa in April 2024.

According to French news website RFI, Gabriel-Toure Hospital in the capital city of Bamako received 102 patients affected by the heat, all of whom tragically passed away upon arrival.

Many of the victims were elderly and had pre-existing health conditions, exacerbating their vulnerability to the extreme temperatures.

Local funeral home owner Ladji Dibatéré expressed concern over the overwhelming number of deaths, stating that mortuaries are now overflowing.

Families are reportedly being forced to keep the bodies of their loved ones at home due to the lack of space in funeral facilities.

In response to the crisis, authorities have advised residents to seek shelter in well-ventilated areas and have implemented measures to protect vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.

School hours for primary school students have been shortened and adjusted to minimize their exposure to the dangerous heat.

The unusually high temperatures have been linked to the El Nino weather phenomenon, which has led to elevated ocean and atmospheric temperatures across the region.

Despite the severity of the situation, the Malian military junta has yet to issue a statement regarding the escalating heatwave and its impact on the population.