South America: High temperatures forecast to persist across parts of eastern Bolivia, central and western Brazil, and Paraguay through at least Nov. 15

Forecast models indicate that high temperatures will persist across much of eastern Bolivia, central and western Brazil, and Paraguay through at least Nov. 15. Widespread temperatures of 37-43 C (99-103 F) are expected across the affected area over the coming days, with localized higher maximums.

As of Nov. 10, Bolvia's National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI) has issued an orange warning for rising temperatures across eastern and southeastern Chuquisaca, central, eastern, and southern Santa Cruz, and central and eastern Tarija through Nov. 12.

Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued red heatwave warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across much of Mato Grosso do Sul and parts of central and southern Goias, central and southern Mato Grosso, central and western Minas Gerais, south-central and southeastern Rondonia, and northern Sao Paulo states through Nov. 15. Orange heatwave warnings are in place for surrounding areas of central and western Brazil.

Paraguay's Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a special weather bulletin for high temperatures across the country Nov. 10-12. Red high-temperature warnings are in place for northern regions Nov. 11 and northern and north-central regions Nov. 12. Orange warnings are in place for northern regions Nov. 10, north-central regions Nov. 11, and south-central and southwestern regions Nov. 12. Yellow warnings have been issued for south-central regions Nov. 10, south-central and southern regions Nov. 11, and southeastern regions Nov. 12.

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 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.