South America: High temperatures forecast to persist in eastern and northern Bolivia, western Brazil, and across Paraguay through at least June 14

Forecast models indicate that high temperatures will persist over parts of eastern and northern Bolivia, western Brazil, and across Paraguay through at least June 14. A hot air mass is forecast to generate persistent high temperatures across the region over the coming days.

As of June 13, Bolvia's National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (SENAMHI) has issued orange high-temperature warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across parts of central, eastern, and northern Beni, central, eastern, northern, and southern Santa Cruz, and much of Pando departments through June 14. Temperatures of 36-39 C (99-102 F) are expected in affected areas.

Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an orange heatwave warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across much of Mato Grosso do Sul and parts of northern and western Parana and northwestern Sao Paulo states through June 14. Temperatures of more than 5 C (9 F) above average for the time of year are expected in affected areas.

Paraguay's Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has warned of maximum temperatures of between 33-38 C (99-100 F) across much of the country June 13-14.

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.