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A high-pressure system over the southern Atlantic Ocean has caused record-breaking temperatures in several South American countries, especially Brazil and Argentina. The heat has forced local authorities to take emergency measures. Residents in the affected regions have been looking for ways to cool down and avoid heatstroke.
An unprecedented heat wave has significantly disrupted the usual rhythm of life in many South American cities. Temperatures in some regions have exceeded historical highs. The heat has forced authorities to revise school schedules and warn the public about the danger of overheating.
Record temperatures in Rio de Janeiro
Temperatures in Rio de Janeiro have reached critical levels. A weather station in the Guaratiba district recorded 44°C, the highest temperature in the city's history since the introduction of the climate warning system ten years ago.
Other municipalities in Rio de Janeiro state also suffered from unbearable heat. Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology reported temperatures of 42°C in Silva Jardim. Residents sought refuge on the city's beaches. Schools postponed the start of classes due to the inability to provide normal learning conditions.
The conditions were particularly severe in densely populated areas of the city. The heat wave lasted for almost a week, causing significant discomfort for local residents. The center of the heat then shifted south, towards Argentina.
Heatwave spreads to Argentina
In northern Argentina, high temperatures were already noticeable on February 17. The country's national meteorological service reported temperatures of around 40°C in several regions. The situation worsened by the end of the month, covering a larger area of the country.
Six provinces in Argentina were under a red alert until February 27. Meteorologists classified this level as “very dangerous” due to the extreme heat. Authorities urged the population to limit their time outdoors and drink plenty of fluids.
Scientific data and predictions
The February 17 heat map vividly illustrated the intensity of the heat in the region. The data was obtained by combining satellite observations and forecasts from the GEOS model, a system that simulates atmospheric processes using complex mathematical equations.
The dark red areas on the map marked regions with temperatures above 38°C. The measurements were taken at a height of approximately 2 meters above the ground. The results confirmed the exceptionality of this heat wave compared to historical data.
Meteorologists link such extreme weather events to climate change. Such heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense in different parts of the world. Scientists predict that such extreme weather events could become the new norm if global climate trends continue.
South America suffers from extreme heat appeared first on Curiosity.
