Africa 50C heatwaves becoming so unbearable even camels are dying

Camel herders are witnessing their animals brave unbearable conditions. 10:37, Thu, Jul 23, 2026 Updated: 10:38, Thu, Jul 23, 2026 The hardy desert animals are suffering from blisters and burns and are dying in worrying numbers (Image: Getty)For generations, desert herders have relied on camels to survive the harshest conditions on Earth. Now, rising temperatures are threatening the very animals built to withstand them.With African summer temperatures frequently topping 50C, camel herders across the continent are warning that extreme heat is causing widespread illness, foot blisters and rising mortality rates among their stock. In Ethiopia’s scorching Afar region, 40-year-old camel herder Ali Umer said: "I can see my camels suffering from extreme heat. "They get blisters on their feet, their eyes become watery, and the hot sand burns their skin and eats up their hair when they sit." Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Polic...