As March 20, 2025, approaches, Brazil prepares for the arrival of autumn, a season that this year promises to be anything but ordinary. Marked by the autumnal equinox at 6:02 AM, autumn in Brazil will last until June 20, bringing alongside it a variety of weather predictions that highlight the impacts of climate change and the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to intensify its influence this season.
As the world continues to grapple with rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns, this autumn presents a dual challenge: the combination of a stronger El Niño and escalating global warming is shaping up to create a markedly atypical season across the country. Generally, El Niño causes increased drought risks in the North and Northeast, while delivering above-average rainfall in the South. However, in 2025, the forecasts indicate an amplification of these trends.
According to national meteorological experts, warmer than average temperatures are expected to dominate autumn 2025, particularly in the North, Northeast, and Midwest regions. By contrast, Southern Brazil could see excessively high rainfall levels, particularly in April, further complicating the already precarious climate dynamics the country faces. Experts have also warned of a potential rise in severe weather events such as floods and landslides, particularly impacting populations in vulnerable areas.
“The combination of a stronger El Niño with the intensifying effects of climate change underscores the need for heightened awareness and preparedness,” stated expert meteorologist Piter Scheuer. “This autumn may yield longer and more severe droughts in the South, while the North and Northeast will experience heavier rainfall leading to potential disasters.”
This year's autumn marks a transitional phase between a hot and humid summer and a cold and dry winter, characterized by fluctuating temperatures. While the beginning of the season will see warmer weather with a possibility of isolated frosts from March 19 to 21 in certain regions such as the Serra Catarinense and Serra Gaúcha, temperatures are projected to rise again towards the end of March, ushering in rain showers typical of summer.
The month of April is expected to be particularly significant, with forecasts indicating higher temperatures and increased rainfall. Amid these climatic fluctuations, public health experts are advising residents to be mindful of dehydration due to the dry conditions expected in many regions.
Moreover, this autumn brings with it the necessity for health precautions, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Climate change has exacerbated health risks, prompting professionals to recommend hydration and respiratory health as top priorities during this season characterized by significant temperature variations.
In response to the anticipated challenges this season, traditional Chinese medicine practices are gaining popularity, offering insights into maintaining physical and mental health throughout the autumn months.
Chinese medicine emphasizes the importance of emotional and physical cleansing, energy conservation, and mindful practices such as Qi Gong and meditation to support wellbeing as the body transitions into the colder months. “Just like nature sheds what is no longer needed, we too can benefit from emotional and mental clearances to prepare for change,” explains integrative therapist Eric Flor.
The autumn also serves as a reminder to pay attention to nutrition, advocating for diets that support respiratory health—particularly essential given the possibility of poor air quality during dry spells. Flor recommends incorporating moistening foods, such as cooked vegetables and fruits like apples and pears, alongside spices such as ginger and cinnamon to bolster the immune system.
Residents are encouraged to adapt their lifestyles accordingly, taking precautions to protect against the harsher conditions anticipated as winter approaches. Proper hydration, sun avoidance during peak heat, and awareness of rapidly shifting temperatures are essential strategies as autumn unfolds.
In summary, autumn 2025 heralds a challenging season marked by intensified climate impacts, necessitating heightened health measures and increased preparedness. The combination of El Niño and global warming's effects call for a collective effort to safeguard communities and maintain physiological and mental health through the ensuing climate variability.
As we prepare to enter a season of change, it becomes imperative that individuals take proactive steps to ensure their health and well-being while closely monitoring weather patterns and health advisories. The resilience of communities will be tested as they navigate an autumn defined by climatic extremes.
