Brazil is currently in the grip of an unparalleled heatwave, with red alerts issued for nearly 3,000 towns and cities, including Rio de Janeiro, where temperatures have soared to a scorching 52.5°C.
The heatwave, attributed to the El Niño phenomenon and climate change, has impacted over a hundred million people and is expected to persist until at least Friday.
The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) reported average temperatures of 37.3°C in Sao Paulo on Tuesday afternoon.
The extreme conditions have left residents fatigued and struggling, with many describing the heat as “unbearable.”
Red alerts from Inmet signal temperatures 5°C above average for over five days, posing serious health risks.
The heatwave, occurring more than a month before the southern hemisphere’s summer, has driven Brazil’s energy consumption to record levels as people seek relief from the intense heat. Inmet’s research indicates that the country’s average temperature has surpassed historical averages from July to October.
Climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events globally, with scientists noting an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
As humans continue to release planet-warming greenhouse gases, heatwaves are anticipated to become longer and more severe.
The current El Niño weather phase further contributes to rising global temperatures.
The situation underscores the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and address the broader challenges posed by a changing climate.