“We might expect flooding, especially in regions that are not well prepared for these types of extremes, and we might also witness some heat-related issues caused by heatwaves. Obviously this can create a range of problems overall,” said Dr Mengaldo.
He added that in Southeast Asia, including Singapore, people can expect extreme weather events to happen three to four times more frequently.
“We might have disruption in the supply chain if, for instance, we have neighbouring countries affected by large-scale flooding or heatwaves that can yield to crop failure, water contamination, among others.”
MORE SHELTERS, WEARABLE SENSORS?
On how Singapore could tackle growing instances of heatwaves, Dr Mengaldo recommended building more shelters and giving outdoor workers wearable sensors to monitor their health in real time.
These sensors could trigger warnings for those experiencing stress or heat-related illnesses.
For workers at China Construction (South Pacific) Development’s mixed-use condominium site in Clarke Quay, they undergo emergency evacuation drills every six months where they are taught what to do under adverse weather conditions.
They also go through regular safety briefings in both English and their native languages.
