Heat Wave Leads to Class Suspensions in Southern Brazil

Due to a heat wave, five cities in southern Brazil, particularly in Rio Grande do Sul, have suspended classes. Authorities reported temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees Celsius. The National Institute of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning affecting several states. Education researcher Daniel Cara indicated that closures due to extreme heat may become the new normal, given ongoing climate challenges.

In response to a severe heat wave, five cities in southern Brazil, specifically within the state of Rio Grande do Sul, have suspended classes. Authorities reported temperatures soaring to 36 degrees Celsius, leading to concerns regarding the ability of schools to ensure student comfort and safety. Classes are anticipated to resume on Monday.

The National Institute of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning not only for Rio Grande do Sul but also for four additional states, as certain regions have witnessed temperatures exceeding the monthly average by 5 degrees Celsius. Last year, extreme weather severely impacted at least 1.17 million children across Brazil, primarily due to floods and droughts, with Rio Grande do Sul experiencing significant disruption during floods in May 2024.

Daniel Cara, an education policy researcher at the University of Sao Paulo, noted a historical trend of school closures during the dry season due to wildfire risks or water shortages. He emphasized that closures due to extreme heat are becoming more prevalent, stating, “This is going to be the new normal. Climate issues have always put pressure on the school calendar. Now, the new factor is that heat waves and the lack of air conditioning will make class cancellations a regular occurrence.”

The summer season in Brazil has been particularly challenging, with residents facing extreme heat. Notably, in February, Rio de Janeiro recorded its highest temperature in at least a decade, with temperatures reaching a staggering 44 degrees Celsius.

The current heat wave has resulted in the suspension of classes across five cities in Rio Grande do Sul, where extreme temperatures have raised concerns for student wellbeing. As climate-related disruptions to schooling are becoming commonplace, experts like Daniel Cara predict a future where heat-related class cancellations will be a regular occurrence. This trend underscores the growing impact of climate change on education and public health in Brazil.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com