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Find out how the heat wave is increasing the thermal sensation, which regions will be most affected and how to protect yourself from high temperatures.
The intense heat wave which has been affecting the Southeast, Central-West and Northeast regions of Brazil since Wednesday (12) has caused extreme temperatures and led experts to debate the impacts of this phenomenon on the climate and thermal sensation.
According to Climatempo forecasts, this condition should persist until at least February 21, with thermometers potentially reaching 40 ºC in states such as Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Pernambuco and Piauí.
Speculation about the 70°C wind chill
Given the high temperatures and high humidity in some regions, speculation has arisen about the possibility of a thermal sensation reaching an impressive 70 ºC in Brazil.
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However, meteorologists consulted state that, although the Applied Climatology table from the University of São Paulo (USP) indicates this theoretical possibility, the practical occurrence of this phenomenon is highly unlikely.
According to a Maria Clara Sassaki, spokesperson for Tempo OK, the thermal sensation is calculated based on the temperature and relative humidity recorded at the same time.
In other words, the combination of a high daytime temperature with maximum humidity levels, generally observed at night or in the early morning, should not be used to determine the thermal sensation of a location.
Josélia Pegorim, meteorologist at Climatempo, reinforces that during the afternoons, when temperatures reach their peaks, air humidity tends to drop.
This reduces the thermal sensation, preventing extreme values such as those mentioned in the USP table projection.
How does humidity influence temperature perception?
Air humidity plays a fundamental role in thermal sensation, as it interferes with the way the human body regulates its temperature.
In hot, dry climates, perspiration becomes more efficient, allowing the body to cool down more quickly.
In hot and humid environments, sweat evaporates with more difficulty, causing an even higher thermal sensation.
Pedro Côrtes, professor at USP, highlights that for a thermal sensation of 70 ºC For this to occur, an extreme scenario of high temperatures combined with very high humidity would be necessary, something considered highly unlikely under the current weather conditions in Brazil.
Possibility of heat records
With the heat wave continuing, capitals such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte and Vitória could register record temperatures for 2025 and even for the summer season.
According to Weather, thermometers in the capital of São Paulo can reach 35ºC, while in Rio de Janeiro the forecast points to up to 39ºC.
In Belo Horizonte and Vitória, similar highs are expected between February 13th and 14th.
Heatwave and essential care
The World Meteorological Organization classifies a heat wave when temperatures remain at least 5ºC above the historical average for five consecutive days.
During periods of extreme heat, it is essential to adopt preventive measures to avoid health problems:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day;
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun between 10am and 16pm;
Wear light, light-colored clothing;
Look for airy and, if possible, air-conditioned places.
With more days of high temperatures expected, the population must take extra care to minimize the impacts of the heat wave and avoid health risks.
