Brazil has experienced its hottest temperature on record, reaching 44.8°C (112.6°F), as parts of the country grapple with an oppressive heatwave. The historic temperature was registered on Sunday in the town of Araçuaí, situated in the south-eastern state of Minas Gerais.
This unprecedented weather phenomenon has been linked to the El Niño phenomenon and the broader impact of climate change. Meteorologists anticipate a partial relief from the intense heat later this week.
The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) reported that, according to their forecast, only three state capitals will see temperatures approaching 40°C. Araçuaí’s new record of 44.8°C surpasses the previous national record of 44.7°C set in 2005.
The scorching conditions have prompted red alerts nationwide, a month ahead of the southern hemisphere’s summer. As Brazilians strive to stay cool, the surge in energy consumption has reached record levels. Tragically, the extreme heat played a role in the cancellation of one of Taylor Swift’s concerts in Rio de Janeiro, following the death of a fan who fell ill before a show on Friday.
The victim, 23-year-old Ana Clara Benevides Machado, sought assistance at the stadium after feeling unwell. Despite being transferred to the hospital, she passed away an hour later.
Official research, released two weeks ago, highlighted that Brazil’s average temperature exceeded historical averages from July to October. This incident underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events globally, attributed to climate change. Scientists emphasize that as long as human activities continue to release planet-warming greenhouse gases, heatwaves are expected to persist and intensify.
Moreover, the Earth is presently experiencing an El Niño weather phase, characterized by a rise in global temperatures. Source – BBC
