Ecuador: High temperatures likely across central, northern, and southern regions through at least Dec. 13

High temperatures are likely across parts of central, northern, and southern Ecuador through at least Dec. 13. As of Dec. 11, the Ecuador National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a warning for increasing daytime temperatures covering the central mountain region and northern parts of the eastern Amazonian region through 16:00 Dec. 13. Temperatures of more than 25 C (77 F) are expected in the mountain region and over 31 C (88 F) in affected parts of the Amazonian region. Orange high-temperature warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) are in place for parts of central and southern Azuay, northern Canar, central Carchi, central and southern Chimborazo, northern Cotopaxi, central Imbabura, northern and western Loja, and central Pichincha provinces. Yellow high-temperature warnings are in place across the rest of the affected area. Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.

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.

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 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.