A relentless heatwave has gripped southern Brazil, causing temperatures to soar and breaking long-standing records. According to Climatempo, the situation is particularly severe in the state of Rio Grande do Sul where temperatures have exceeded 40ºC, with the city of Quaraí reaching an unprecedented 43.8ºC.
This heatwave is projected to last at least until the upcoming weekend, potentially extending its effects to neighboring regions, including Santa Catarina and Paraná. Climatempo has confirmed the continuation of extreme temperatures, which could surpass the 40ºC mark once again.
February has brought elevated temperatures across the region, influenced by the active La Niña phenomenon. Meteorologists suggest this climatic condition is propelling episodes of intense heat, especially near the borders with Uruguay and Argentina. Residents of Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, can expect temperatures to linger slightly above average for the time of year.
Quaraí is making headlines not just for its locality but for setting the record for the highest temperature documented since consistent records began in 1910, as highlighted by Climatempo Meteorology. On February 4, Quaraí recorded 43.8ºC, marking the highest temperature reached in Brazil so far this year. This is the third time the region has approached record-breaking highs this month, having previously marked 42.5ºC and 42.4ºC just days apart.
The heat has been so severe it poses health risks, with INMET issuing warnings about the dangers associated with such high temperatures. Six regions within Rio Grande do Sul are under advisories for dangerous heat, indicating temperatures could remain 5ºC above normal for the next few days. Citizens are cautioned to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak sunlight hours.
While the southern states are battling scorching temperatures, the rest of Brazil is experiencing weather disparities, with storm warnings stretching across the northern and eastern territories. Thunderstorms, heavy rains, and high winds are expected to impact areas significantly, leading to potential power outages and flooding.
Forecasters predict varying weather across the nation, as regions like the Northeast brace for downpours of between 30 and 60 mm/h, along with wind gusts reaching 100 km/h. Residents are advised to take precautions, particularly during storms, avoiding shelter under trees due to the risk of falling branches and electrical strikes.
Santa Catarina is also bearing the brunt of this heatwave, set to experience spiking temperatures of up to 5°C above normal. Particularly, the west and south regions of the state will see marked increases, leading to concerns about the health and wellness of the local populace.
This climatic phenomenon, with roots extending back to northern Argentina, continues to spread its reach. Health officials have stressed the need for vigilance as the unusual heat persists. According to INMET, the southeastern coastal regions of Brazil are experiencing starkly different weather, efficiently highlighting the wide-ranging effects of the current climatic events.
Taking these factors together, the dramatic rise in temperature and extended heat advisory paints a concerning picture for southern Brazil. Authorities have reiterated the necessity for the public to stay informed about updates from meteorological services and heed recommendations during this period of extreme weather.
Experts indicate this intense heat situation is part of broader climatic changes affecting regional weather patterns and requires continuous monitoring and adaptation strategies moving forward.
With the combination of searing heat, drought conditions, and imminent storms, both meteorologists and public officials are working tirelessly to keep the citizens of Brazil updated. This situation not only examines the current climatic diversity but also serves as a cautionary tale for future weather events.