Weather Alert: Intense Heat and Heavy Rains Affect Several Regions

Weather has become one of the most searched topics, driven by alerts from the São Paulo State Civil Defense for this Sunday (30) and Monday (31). The population is seeking information due to the combination of intense heat, low air humidity, and the possibility of heavy downpours in several locations, with a high risk of fires in some regions.

Conditions in São Paulo: Heat, Dryness, and Isolated Rains

The state of São Paulo faces a mixed meteorological scenario. In regions such as Bauru, Araçatuba, and São José do Rio Preto, the warning is for dry weather and high temperatures, which can reach 40 °C. Meanwhile, in Presidente Prudente, Araçatuba, São José do Rio Preto, Barretos, Franca, Ribeirão Preto, and Araraquara, the SP Civil Defense reported a combination of high temperatures and low relative air humidity levels. Four alerts for humidity below 30% were sent via SMS to some cities this Sunday.

In contrast, areas of instability are affecting regions near the border with Paraná and in the eastern Paulista strip, favoring isolated rain showers. The rain may be accompanied by lightning and wind gusts of up to 60 km/h. The Itapeva region, in southern São Paulo, and the Ribeira Valley are on alert, with the possibility of moderate accumulations. Greater São Paulo, Baixada Santista, the north coast, and the Paraíba Valley also expect rain showers, which may intensify at times, with lightning and moderate wind gusts.

High Risk of Fires and Wildfires

Given the intense heat and dry vegetation, the state government reinforced the call for caution to prevent wildfires. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity significantly increases the risk of forest fires and wildfires. This scenario favors the rapid spread of fire, especially in areas with dry, low-lying vegetation and pastures.

The Civil Defense warns that starting wildfires is an environmental crime. Guidelines include not using fire for clearing land, not burning trash or waste, not releasing sky lanterns, and not discarding cigarette butts on the shoulders of highways or in areas of dry vegetation. For drivers on highways, the recommendation is not to throw cigarettes, matches, or flammable materials out of vehicle windows.

Climate Situation in the South and Other Regions of the Country

In the rest of the country, the forecast indicates that the Southern Region remains under strong instability. There is a possibility of hail in Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, with rain showers accompanied by thunderstorms. The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) maintains a storm alert for this Sunday and Monday across the entire states of Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, and Paraná, covering cities such as Curitiba and Florianópolis.

On Monday, instabilities increase in western and northern Amazonas. Isolated showers may also occur in Acre, Rondônia, and Roraima. In Porto Velho, temperatures could reach 41°C.

Recommendations and Emergency Channels

The Civil Defense recommends staying hydrated, humidifying environments whenever possible, avoiding prolonged sun exposure and intense physical activities during the hottest hours of the day. The guidance also includes wearing light and light-colored clothing, keeping environments ventilated, and redoubling care for children, the elderly, and animals.

In emergency situations, assistance can be requested by calling 199 for Civil Defense, and 193 for the Fire Department. To receive free Civil Defense alerts via SMS, register the ZIP code of interest by sending a text message to 40199.

With information from G1, agenciasp.sp.gov.br, Estadão.