Adapting to heatwaves as an expat
Climate change has become an inescapable reality. Sunk islands, droughts, floods, and frequent heatwaves are among the severe phenomena that have become increasingly common. If not for their link to rising temperatures, these events might almost be mistaken for tourist attractions. In Dubai, both expats and locals can testify to the harsh realities of climate change. From May to October, the emirate endures extreme heat. The relentless sun forces residents to seek refuge in air-conditioned environments. Temperatures regularly soar above 40°C (104°F), with heat indices climbing even higher—surpassing 50°C (122°F) on days like July 17.
Living in a suffocating city
What do the expats say about Dubai, one of the hottest places on Earth? Long-term residents recall a time, about 50 years ago, when Dubai was nearly deserted during the peak of summer—a season lasting over six months. Today, however, Dubai is bustling year-round. To provide some respite from the heat, in 2023, the government introduced 800 meters of "night beaches"—a novel concept worldwide—which quickly gained popularity. At night, temperatures cool to around 30°C (86°F). Locals and expatriates alike gather with family and friends, adapting to their new routine: endure the sweltering daytime temperatures in anticipation of nighttime relief by the sea. Tourists, too, have discovered the allure of nighttime swimming.
Yet, this relief may be fleeting. Temperatures are predicted to reach 50°C (122°F). This raises questions about everyday life. When should one sleep if the night becomes a social event? Is the government contemplating a significant adjustment to work schedules in response to these conditions?
In a parallel development last April, Dubai was struck by torrential rains, while Europe—currently the fastest-warming continent—experienced unprecedented temperature spikes. The situation is particularly dire in Spain, which is highly favored by expatriates for its traditionally sunny climate. However, as temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F), the initial pleasure quickly gives way to concern. Spain also faced an early heatwave in April 2023. Over time, immigrants have observed the deterioration of the Spanish landscape. The relentless summer heat in Europe, especially in Spain, often exceeds 45°C (113°F) and can approach 50°C (122°F) in the southern regions.
Climate change and frequent floods
Do expatriates factor in the climate of potential host countries? Yes, particularly if they suffer from specific allergies or health issues. However, their primary considerations are usually job opportunities and overall living conditions. Despite rising temperatures, Spain remains a preferred destination for many expats. The United States also continues to attract international students and professionals, even amid increasing extreme weather events. For example, hurricane Milton swept through Florida on the night of October 9-10. Governor Ron DeSantis remarked that the situation could have been far worse. This event followed closely on the heels of hurricane Helene, which had battered Florida and other parts of the southeastern United States just days earlier. Additionally, in September, hurricane Francine had also impacted the southern United States.
How are expats coping with global warming challenges?
How do you manage daily life when disrupted by climate change? Expatriates in Spain are adapting to drought and stringent water restrictions. This summer, Seville took measures to curb overtourism, a move that sparked controversy as local residents protested against bearing the cost of tourists' excessive water usage. Water scarcity, a prominent consequence of global warming, profoundly affects daily life in Spain. To combat chronic water shortages, Spain has committed to spending 12 billion euros by 2027.
The impacts of global warming are felt across Europe. Metropolitan France, a hub for foreign retirees, students, and working professionals, recently suffered major floods on October 17 and 18, an event Prime Minister Michel Barnier described as unprecedented in 40 years. These floods caused power outages, submerged businesses and homes, and tore roofs off buildings, with the south of France, known for its appeal, experiencing significant rainfall. Long-term expatriates have observed an uptick in floods and droughts in the region. Like Spain, France also grapples with heatwaves; in the summer of 2023, 45 departments imposed restrictions on watering gardens and filling swimming pools, threatening substantial fines, particularly in the Paris area and the southeast.
Consequences of climate change on the daily lives of expats
Climate change significantly affects expatriates' daily lives, particularly regarding housing, which is a crucial factor. Some expats are reevaluating their real estate investments after facing multiple floods, while others opt to relocate to cities perceived as safer. Drought further complicates matters by compromising building structures. Like local residents, expatriates are concerned about their safety and property values, which often leads to skyrocketing insurance premiums and the necessity to rebuild their lives.
Water scarcity poses another serious challenge. In cities with stringent water restrictions, residents are forced to ration their usage meticulously, accounting for every liter used for showering, cooking, or cleaning.
Climate change impacts every facet of life. In Spain, for instance, beachgoing remains popular, but it is uncertain how long this will last. In some areas, sand is becoming scarce, water temperatures are rising, and the sun is increasingly harsh. Observing these changes, some tourists and residents are starting to avoid traditional hotspots in favor of cooler regions to the north. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of Spain's tourism model, a daunting task given that tourism contributes over 10% to the nation's GDP.
To leave or stay?
In regions severely affected by climate changes, expatriates often grapple with the decision to continue living under increasingly challenging conditions. On one hand, some choose to stay out of a sense of solidarity with local residents. The Fukushima disaster serves as a poignant example: many in Japan felt abandoned by the rapid departure of expatriates, particularly noting the early exit of French nationals. The French Ambassador to Japan reported that 80 to 90% of the French community had left, reducing their presence from around 9,000 to just 1,800. While such human reactions to disasters are understandable, there were concerns about the potential negative impact on the image of expatriates due to these departures.
However, the situation has evolved. Foreigners have gradually returned to Japan, and the Japanese government has increasingly opened its doors to immigration. By 2024, Japan's foreign population has grown to 3.2 million—about 2.6% of the total population, up from less than a million (1.6%) in 2016. This shift highlights the complex decisions and perceptions surrounding expatriate communities in the face of global challenges.
