Heat Waves Research and Impacts on Human Health: The Need for Studies in Nigeria: A Review

Abstract

Heat waves comprise of hot and cold waves and hot waves are the number of days when normal daily temperature exceeds its normal limits for consecutive periods. This phenomenon is experiences globally and as such the temperate regions especially countries in Europe and Asia notably France, Germany China, India etc. have and still doing extensive scholarly works on heat waves research while Nigeria is lagging behind on this vital research. The replacements of natural water channels and path for concrete surfaces have led to urban heat island effects raving the entire country. Heat waves are linked a number of issues that directly affect health. There is a need for more studies on the nexus between heat waves and health as it affects the generality of ambient population. This review has enunciated gaps especially in Nigeria for scholars and research students to take advantage of to broaden the frontiers of knowledge. This paper is guided by the introduction, tools and techniques, methodology, gaps and conclusion.