The intense heatwave sweeping across Southern Brazil has raised alarm as temperatures soar to unprecedented levels. Starting from February 24, 2025, this new wave of extreme heat primarily affects the state of Rio Grande do Sul, with some regions witnessing highs between 33°C to 42°C, and isolated areas even reaching peaks above 40°C.
According to MetSul Meteorologia, "A nova onda de calor que começa no Rio Grande do Sul será prolongada e pode se estender até o mês de março." The heatwave is the second major one recorded this month, and it stems from warm air masses combining over the southern regions, including Argentina and Uruguay.
The city's capital, Porto Alegre, is bracing for exhausting temperatures, where forecasters predict, "Em Porto Alegre, os termômetros devem marcar até 37°C nesta segunda-feira (24)." The regions feeling the most heat include the West, Northwest, and parts of the Vale dos Vinhedos, each expected to experience temperatures significantly surpassing the seasonal averages.
Such extreme weather does not come without concern. The Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET) has expressed warnings. "Partes de Santa Catarina, Paraná, Mato Grosso do Sul e São Paulo também estão sob alerta de altas temperaturas," indicating widespread attention needed for the respective regions affected.
Health risks are substantial as excessive heat can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Residents are advised to wear light clothing and stay hydrated. “These temperatures devem ser acompanhadas de chuvas isoladas com potencial para tempestades,” warned meteorologists, hinting at the potential for isolated thunderstorm activity which may bring some relief but could also lead to hazards such as flash floods.
Many locals have already begun adapting their daily routines to mitigate the intense heat. Outdoor activities are being planned for earlier or later parts of the day to avoid the blistering heat, and local businesses are preparing for decreased foot traffic during peak hot hours.
The Copernicus Climate Change Service highlighted this pattern as another example of how climate-related anxiety continues to increase across Brazil. The prolonged heatwaves challenge residents and authorities alike, with many contemplating how best to respond to this extreme weather phenomenon.
While temperatures are shocking now, the forecast suggests there may be fluctuations as thunderstorms develop later this week, providing intermittent cooling, though such weather is expected to be isolated. Experts are keeping their eyes on the movement of these systems closely.
With these varying conditions manifesting across Southern Brazil, authorities encourage the public to remain vigilant and proactive about hydration and exposure to the sunlight. Clarity around these expectations is key to maintaining health and safety through the intensifying heatwave.