Bangkok: Professor Songrit Phonngern has issued a call to action for ASEAN nations to adapt their energy consumption behaviors in response to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and "non-natural" disasters.

According to Thai News Agency, Professor Songrit, a leading expert on the Mekong River Basin countries, emphasized the need for urgent changes during an interview on the Good Morning ASEAN program on MCOT News FM 100.5.

The discussion highlighted the severe impact of human-induced environmental destruction, including deforestation and fossil fuel usage, leading to recurring extreme heat, drought, wildfires, and unpredictable weather patterns in the region. Professor Songrit identified these issues as major concerns for ASEAN's long-term resilience strategies.

Professor Songrit explained that extreme heat, which has surpassed 40 degrees Celsius, results from greenhouse gases trapping heat, raising water and soil temperatures. This contributes to increased risks of summer storms and erratic weather. The highest temperature recorded this year was 43.5 degrees Celsius, with projections indicating further increases due to the anticipated intensification of El Ni±o. This phenomenon is expected to raise temperatures by 0.7-0.8 degrees Celsius, potentially reaching 44 degrees Celsius by April next year.

In April, the collision of cold and warm air masses is expected to cause summer storms, thunderstorms, and hail in some areas. Although these conditions may lead to a temporary drop in temperatures, they will not bring about a significant cooling effect. The region is likely to experience more frequent extreme weather events, including short bursts of heavy rain and localized flooding. Urban areas such as Bangkok face increased risks of flooding due to heavy rainfall over short periods.

Concerning water resources, Professor Songrit noted that only 40-50% of last year's floodwaters remain. Should rainfall fail to meet expectations, there is a potential risk of drought next year, particularly impacting the agricultural sector during the dry-season rice planting period. This scenario could lead to severe consequences, as seen in early 2024 when high temperatures caused a 50% drop in durian production, along with declines in rice and coconut yields.

Professor Songrit cautioned that while the likelihood of a "super El Ni±o" is less than 30%, even a severe El Ni±o would worsen the situation due to the already elevated baseline Earth temperature. The focus should be on adapting to a warmer world by developing drought-resistant plant varieties, managing water resources efficiently, and engaging in proactive agricultural planning, such as reducing cultivated areas while enhancing product quality.

For urban regions, a shift towards clean energy, including solar power, is recommended to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, which currently account for 70% of electricity production. Additionally, saltwater intrusion poses a growing threat as freshwater resources dwindle and sea levels rise, necessitating improvements in water supply systems to tackle salinity.

The rainy season expected to start in June is predicted to be less intense than last year, underscoring Thailand's struggle with global warming, El Ni±o, and extreme weather events simultaneously. Research warns that without a reduction in carbon emissions, Thailand could face temperatures as high as 47-50 degrees Celsius by 2070, resembling desert conditions.

Professor Songrit concluded that agricultural workers and outdoor laborers must remain vigilant against heatstroke and ensure adequate hydration. Meanwhile, urban residents should adjust their energy consumption habits and collaborate both domestically and across ASEAN to mitigate PM2.5 pollution, aiming for a sustainable response to the warming world.