Extreme heat threatens Nepal’s economy as warming accelerates
Summary
Extreme heat is squeezing workers, businesses and households across Nepal as temperatures rise faster than expected, with the World Bank warning of major health and economic losses. The report calls for heat-resilient housing, urban planning, stronger health systems and better protection for outdoor workers.
Key Points
- Nepal has warmed by 1.26 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, making it one of South Asia’s fastest-warming countries.
- Extreme heat is reducing productivity, raising health risks and hurting incomes for informal workers, construction laborers and farmers.
- The World Bank warns that without adaptation, rising temperatures could significantly cut South Asia’s GDP and strain public finances.
- The report urges heat-resilient urban planning, early warning systems, greener cities and stronger protections for vulnerable groups.
