Bolivia, Paraguay: High temperatures forecast to persist across eastern and northern Bolivia and northern and western Paraguay through at least Nov. 19

Forecast models indicate that high temperatures will persist across much of eastern and northern Bolivia and northern and western Paraguay through at least Nov. 19. The high temperatures will exacerbate the threat of wildfires ongoing in parts of Bolivia and will increase heat-related health concerns in affected areas.

As of Nov. 15, Bolvia's National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI) has issued a red warning for rising temperatures (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Beni and Pando, much of Santa Cruz, and parts of eastern Chuquisaca, northeastern Cochabamba, northern La Paz, and central and eastern Tarija departments through Nov. 19. Temperatures of 38-44 C (100-111 F) are expected across the affected areas over the coming days. As of Nov. 15, eight municipalities in Beni Department have declared local disasters or emergencies due to wildfires and drought which are impacting the region amid the hot and dry conditions. Authorities in Santa Cruz Department have issued an orange wildfire alert due to more than 300 wildfire outbreaks across six municipalities.

Paraguay's Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has forecast temperatures of 40-43 C (104-109 F) across the Chaco Region through at least Nov. 17. At least ten heat-related fatalities have been reported in Boqueron Department in the past week due to persistent high temperatures.

Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts as the heatwave develops over the coming days.

The high temperatures may result in increased energy and water demand and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for further wildfire growth throughout the affected areas. Heatwaves also pose a threat to 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 being hospitalized for dehydration.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, 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 vehicles, 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.