Brazil is experiencing an extreme heat wave during Carnival, with record temperatures hitting the Metropolitan Region especially hard. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), Rio de Janeiro could reach 40°C (104°F) on Monday, but high humidity may push the heat index to 62.7°C (144.9°F), surpassing the previous record of 62.3°C (144.1°F) set in March 2024.
Authorities have issued alerts for several states, including Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Pernambuco, and Piauí. In Rio Grande do Sul, inadequate infrastructure has led to the suspension of classes in more than 2,300 schools.
The extreme heat is driven by multiple factors. Rio de Janeiro, with its asphalt, traffic, and buildings, acts as an “urban heat island.” Its landscape traps hot air, while a high-pressure system prevents cloud formation. Additionally, the Atlantic Ocean’s unusually warm waters are generating hot winds instead of cooling breezes.
Experts warn that the lack of rainfall has worsened the situation. So far this year, many areas of Rio have received less than 40% of their usual precipitation, and in the past three months, the city has gone 71 days without rain.
Extreme heat poses serious health risks, especially for the elderly and those with preexisting conditions. When the air temperature surpasses 36.5°C (97.7°F), the body struggles to regulate itself, and high humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, increasing the risk of heatstroke.
To stay safe, specialists recommend staying hydrated, eating fruits and vegetables, wearing light clothing, avoiding alcohol, limiting sun exposure between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and staying in cool, ventilated areas.
