Heat Wave in Brazil

The heat has risen again. Although we were already used to seeing thermometers approaching 35 degrees in summer, we are now facing something much more severe.

In the middle of July, cities like Cuiabá, Teresina, and even São Paulo recorded thermal sensations exceeding 45 degrees.

This is not just discomfort; it is a warning.

Therefore, it is time to understand why this is happening, how it affects our health, and what we can — and should — do about it.

The Escalation of Temperatures: An Alarming Picture

Over the past few years, climate change has ceased to be a future possibility and has become a daily reality.

Although some still resist accepting it, the data is clear.

Average temperatures have increased in almost all regions of the country.

Additionally, heatwaves have not only become more frequent but also longer-lasting and more intense.

For example, just this year in 2025, Brazil has already faced four major extremes of heat. This represents double the average recorded over the past decade.

Therefore, it is impossible to deny that there is something abnormal.

At the same time, experts point to well-defined causes.

On one hand, global warming is advancing at an accelerated pace, primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions.

On the other hand, natural phenomena like El Niño further amplify the climate imbalance.

However, it is not just about natural phenomena.

Deforestation in the Amazon, which has grown significantly in recent years, directly contributes to reduced humidity and alters rainfall patterns.

In other words, the bill is coming due, and the ones who suffer the most are us.

Direct Impacts on Health and Daily Life

Although many people associate heat solely with discomfort, the effects go far beyond that.

The human body needs to maintain its internal temperature close to 36.5ºC.

When exposed to extreme heat, it goes into alert mode.

Sweating increases, heart rate rises, and the risk of dehydration becomes imminent.

Therefore, it is no coincidence that hospitals are recording a significant increase in visits for heat-related problems.

Heat strokes, fainting, and exacerbation of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are just a few examples.

Children and the elderly, naturally more vulnerable, represent the largest portion of severe cases.

Additionally, heat affects productivity.

Construction workers, farmers, and outdoor laborers are forced to slow down, which directly impacts the economy.

Moreover, energy consumption skyrockets, primarily due to the intensive use of fans and air conditioning units.

This overloads the electrical system and increases the risk of blackouts.

Ill-Prepared Cities and Slow Policies

Although the impacts are well-known, the response from authorities remains slow.

While some capitals have adopted targeted measures, such as distributing water and setting up cooling tents, most Brazilian cities remain unprepared to deal with extreme temperatures.

In fact, the problem goes beyond a lack of infrastructure.

Urban logic still prioritizes concrete and ignores green areas.

As a result, the so-called “heat islands” arise, zones of the city where the temperature can be up to 10 degrees higher than in peripheral regions.

Additionally, urban planning rarely considers climatic aspects.

Streets without shade, squares without trees, and buildings that reflect even more heat are common.

Therefore, even small actions could make a difference.

Planting trees, creating green corridors, investing in eco-roofs, and painting urban surfaces with light colors are examples of simple yet effective measures.

The Role of the Population and the Urgency of Awareness

However, we cannot wait solely for the authorities.

The population also has a responsibility in this process.

Although not everyone has access to resources like air conditioning, there are small actions that help reduce the effects of heat.

Drinking water regularly, avoiding sun exposure during the hottest hours, and opting for light clothing are some of those actions.

Furthermore, environmental awareness needs to spread.

Every action counts. Reducing meat consumption, properly sorting waste, driving less, and pressing politicians for stricter laws are ways to contribute to slowing down climate change.

It is also essential to understand that climate change is not a future issue but a present one.

Although the problem may seem distant to some, it is already directly affecting the lives of millions of Brazilians.

And if nothing is done now, the scenario is likely to worsen rapidly.

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Source of information: Original Authorship

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