Brazil issues red alert as record heatwave hits major cities: Video
Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued a red alert for a high-danger heatwave affecting large parts of the country, including the entire territories of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
The warning, which remains in force at least until Monday, December 29, marks one of the most severe heat events recorded in the region.
The alert also extends to Mato Grosso do Sul and areas of Paraná, affecting more than 1,000 municipalities nationwide. In these areas, temperatures have risen up to 5 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, increasing health risks for the population.
Footage filmed by Viory on Sunday, December 28, showed residents in São Paulo seeking relief from the heat by drinking cold beverages, resting in shaded areas and using water fountains in public parks. Inmet forecast maximum temperatures of at least 34°C in the city, with conditions remaining oppressive throughout the weekend.
Some residents said the heat had become difficult to endure, prompting families to spend time outdoors near water sources. Others said they were avoiding beaches due to unsuitable conditions, instead turning to open urban spaces to cool down.
On Friday, December 27, São Paulo recorded a temperature of 36.2°C, the highest for December since records began in 1961, according to local authorities. In response to the heatwave, the state government warned of increased water consumption and urged residents to save and reuse water whenever possible.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
