Marek Kučera 
The historic city of Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former capital, tied its record for the hottest August day in history with a scorching temperature of 37.6°C. This remarkable heat underscores the growing intensity of summer temperatures in the region, reflecting broader trends of climate change and increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Southeast Asia.
Ayutthaya, known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage, has long experienced warm tropical summers, but such high temperatures during August are exceptional. The tie of the all-time August record highlights how the city is facing unprecedented heat stress during what is typically a hot but more moderate period of the year.
This extreme heat can pose serious health risks to residents and tourists alike, increasing the potential for heat-related illnesses and placing pressure on local infrastructure and water resources. Meteorologists attribute these soaring temperatures to prevailing weather patterns that channel hot, dry air into the region, intensified by ongoing global warming.
As climate models project further warming in Southeast Asia, cities like Ayutthaya will likely see more frequent and severe heat extremes. Adaptation measures and public awareness campaigns will be essential to safeguard health and maintain quality of life amid rising temperatures.
Illustration picture. Source: https://excursionmania.com/supplier/uploads/excursions/excursions/ex-3028/ayutthaya-sunset-bicycle-tour-1739270552.jpg
