Intense Cold in the South, Spring Warmth Begins

The first dawn of spring brought a cold front that is already generating intense cold, risk of frost, and heavy rains in several regions of Brazil, drawing the attention of residents and authorities.

Intense Cold in the South and Frost Risk

The South is registering minimum temperatures close to 0°C in mountain areas, with the possibility of frost in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and southern Paraná. In Curitiba, the maximum temperature is expected to be around 12°C, while Porto Alegre may start the day between 6°C and 8°C. The combination of clear skies, dry air, and light winds favors a drop in temperature near the ground.

Rain and Storms in the Southeast

In the Southeast, the cold front maintains an extensive band of rain. Rio de Janeiro could accumulate over 50 mm of precipitation in 24 hours, with intense downpours, strong winds, and temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. São Paulo will have a minimum of about 13°C and a maximum between 17°C and 18°C, with rain concentrated in the eastern part of the state. Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and areas of the Paraíba Valley also show instability and precipitation.

Above-Average Spring Temperatures

Despite the initial cold, spring is progressing with temperatures above the historical average in much of Rio Grande do Sul. MetSul indicates that, starting Thursday, maximums should fluctuate between 20°C and 25°C, rising to 27°C to 30°C on Friday, with peaks of 32°C to 33°C in some areas of the West and Northwest.

Moderate Warmth Scenario in Rio Grande do Sul

The warmth that is settling in will not be intense but sufficient to ward off the early morning cold. On Saturday, the South and part of the East of the state will see a temperature drop, while the North Half will maintain maximums between 30°C and 34°C. On Sunday, most of the state will experience a mild afternoon (15°C to 17°C), except for the Northwest and Médio Uruguai, where the heat will remain strong.

Thermal Contrast and Season Outlook

MetSul emphasizes that the first half of spring will be marked by temperatures near or below average in several areas, due to the persistence of cold air masses and a high frequency of rain. More frequent warmth is expected to emerge in the second half of the season when warm air incursions become more constant.

With information from G1, MetSul Meteorologia.