Uruguay, Argentina: Heatwave warnings in effect across western and northern Uruguay and northern and central Argentina through Jan. 16

Event

Extreme temperatures are forecast to continue across western and northern Uruguay and northern and central Argentina through at least Jan. 16.

The Uruguayan Institute of Meteorology (Inumet) has issued a heatwave warning across much of western and northern Uruguay through Jan. 16. The affected area includes the whole of Artigas, Durazno, Flores, Paysandu, Rio Negro, Rivera, Salto, Soriano, and Tacaurembo departments, as well as Arevalo Municipality in Cerro Largo Department, Agraciada and Florencio Sanchez municipalities in Colonia Department, and Goni and Saranda Grandi municipalities in Florida Department. Maximum temperatures in the affected area are forecast to reach 36-42 C (97-108 F). Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts as the heatwave develops over the coming days.

Argentina's National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued extreme temperature warnings for large parts of northern and central Argentina. As of Jan. 12, the following warnings are in place:

• Red extreme temperature warnings (the highest level on a four-tier scale): Catamarca, western and central La Rioja, San Juan, parts of western Cordoba, parts of western and central San Luis, northern and central Mendoza, most of La Pampa, northeastern Neuquen, and northwestern Rio Negro provinces.

• Orange extreme temperature warnings: Tucumen, southern La Rioja, northern and southern San Luis, parts of southern Cordoba, northeastern La Pampa, southern Mendoza, northern Neuquen, parts of western Buenos Aires, and western Entre Rios provinces.

• Yellow extreme temperature warnings: across the rest of the affected area.

Mass power outages have been reported in Buenos Aires and the surrounding area Jan. 11 after a fire at a generator cut high voltage lines supplying the area. Around 700,00 people were affected by the power cuts and over 200,000 were still without power as of late Jan. 11. The power outages occurred as the city experienced temperatures of up to 41.1 C (106 F), the second-highest temperature recorded in the capital since 1906.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink bottled or boiled water. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.