Chile: High temperatures forecast to persist over central regions through at least Dec. 27

High temperatures are likely to persist across much of central Chile through at least Dec. 27. The Chilean Meteorological Directorate has issued orange high-temperature warnings for parts of Biobio, La Araucania, Los Rios, Los Lagos, Maule, and Nuble regions Dec. 24-25. Yellow high-temperature warnings are in place for the rest of the affected area through Dec. 27. The National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SANEPARED) has also issued a yellow alert due to intense heat across Biobio, La Araucania, Maule, and Nuble regions. Several forest fires are ongoing in the affected regions amid the high temperatures; as of late Dec. 22, SENAPRED has issued a red alert for an ongoing fire that is threatening homes in Los Alamos Commune in Arauco Province, Biobio Region. 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.