Cariocas are feeling the high temperatures that have been dominating the city’s weather this summer! This Monday, according to the Rio Operations Center, the city reached level 4 in the Heat Protocol, but what does that mean? Find out how to identify all the heat levels and how to protect yourself!
What are the levels of the Heat Protocol?
The Rio Operations Center (COR) has created a system that measures heat levels, to monitor temperatures and alert the population to the city’s thermal conditions, especially on days of excessive heat and above-average thermal sensation.
There are a total of five heat levels, each corresponding to a specific temperature range and duration.
Level 1 indicates normal conditions, when temperatures follow the forecast for that period, without heat spikes. When the city reaches Level 2, it means that temperatures can be between 36°C and 40°C for one or two consecutive days. From then on, even without major impacts on the city, COR already provides guidance to the population, with technical support from the Health Department.
Level 3 occurs when temperatures between 36°C and 40°C are recorded for at least three consecutive days. At this stage, COR intensifies the alerts on different communication channels, but there are still no changes to the city’s routine.
Level 4 is when temperatures, recorded or forecast, are between 40°C and 44°C for at least three consecutive days. This is when measures such as cooling points, hydration stations and possible cancellations of outdoor events come into play. The Committee for the Development of Protocols for Coping with Extreme Heat, with the approval of the mayor, guides these actions.
Level 5 is maximum alert! In this phase, when temperatures are above 44°C, cariocas receive weather reports every six hours, and an epidemiological bulletin is released up to 72 hours after the end of the heatwave. More emergency measures also come into play, following the Committee’s guidelines.
The city of Rio has already reached level 4; here’s how to take care of yourself!
Despite the excessive heat in Rio de Janeiro and the fact that temperatures seem to be above 50ºC, the city has not reached the maximum level – fortunately!
But Rio de Janeiro has reached Level 4 in the Heat Protocol, with recent records of 40ºC (and more!) for one or two consecutive days and for four hours or more.
In this case, it is necessary to take some precautions in the face of the heat. These include increasing your intake of water or natural fruit juices, even if you’re not thirsty. It’s also worth eating light foods, such as fruit and salads.
In addition, wearing light, cool clothes, avoiding alcoholic drinks and direct exposure to the sun are all part of the precautions. For those with pets, keep your walks to before 10am and after 4pm, and don’t forget to check the temperature of the ground!