Record High Temperatures and Extreme Weather Patterns in South America

South America is experiencing record high temperatures, especially in Rio de Janeiro, where temperatures reached 44°C. This has led to drought conditions and the activation of heat safety protocols. Meanwhile, north-western Argentina faces similar heat, while North America grapples with polar temperatures. Additionally, parts of Africa are suffering from extreme heat, prompting school closures in South Sudan.

Weather conditions across South America have reached unprecedented levels, with record high temperatures reported during the final month of summer. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Guaratiba weather station recorded an alarming 44°C last Monday, exceeding the February average by 14°C. This marks the highest temperature in over ten years for the city. Additionally, Rio is experiencing one of its driest Feburarys, with minimal rain anticipated for the next week. As a precaution, authorities activated a level 4 heat protocol, establishing hydration stations and designated air-conditioned buildings as cooling points.

While temperatures in Brazil have recently cooled closer to normal, the intense heat is now shifting to north-western Argentina, where temperatures are expected to reach between the upper 30s and low 40s Celsius, significantly above the seasonal average. Unlike in Brazil, these high temperatures may trigger thunderstorms and substantial rainfall in select regions. The persistent heatwave is primarily driven by high pressure situated over the southern Atlantic, which facilitates air compression and warming as it travels towards southern areas of the continent.

In stark contrast to the sweltering conditions in South America, cold extremes were observed in North America. Saskatchewan, Canada, registered temperatures plummeting to -40°C, while North Dakota recorded a low of -37.8°C. This resulted in a remarkable temperature difference exceeding 80°C between the two continents on the same day.

Furthermore, central and eastern Africa are also grappling with extreme heat. South Sudan, along with parts of Chad, the Central African Republic, and Sudan, is engulfed in a heatwave bringing temperatures in the low 40s Celsius. Due to the oppressive heat, schools in South Sudan have been forced to close for two weeks for the second consecutive year, aiming to prevent students from succumbing to the hazardous conditions. Forecasts indicate little relief, with heatwave conditions likely to persist into March.

In summary, South America has witnessed record-breaking temperatures, particularly in Brazil, leading to significant disruptions and health protocols. As the intensity of the heat shifts toward Argentina, contrasting cold extremes affect North America. Moreover, extreme heat also plagues parts of Africa, necessitating urgent measures to protect public health. This climate pattern underscores the pressing challenges related to rising global temperatures and changing weather patterns.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com