Argentina is facing a severe heat wave impacting 10 provinces, with Buenos Aires under a yellow alert for dangerous heat levels. Thousands are seeking shelter but over 622,000 users are affected by power outages. Traffic systems are disrupted, and a red alert is in place for specific provinces indicating extreme danger from the heat.
Argentina is currently enduring a significant heat wave, impacting 10 out of 24 provinces, according to the National Meteorological Service. In Buenos Aires, a yellow heat alert has been declared, highlighting the potential dangers of elevated temperatures, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and individuals with chronic illnesses. The heat index soared to 44.4 degrees Celsius (112 degrees Fahrenheit) shortly after 2:45 PM local time.
Residents in Buenos Aires are seeking refuge in air-conditioned areas including shopping malls and parks like Parque de los Ninos and Parque de la Ciudad. However, power outages have affected over 622,000 users, amounting to about 2 million individuals, as reported by local media. This interruption has also impacted essential government buildings, including the presidential palace and the Ministry of Economy.
The widespread blackouts across various neighborhoods have led to significant traffic issues, particularly with non-operational traffic lights during the busy post-Carnival business day. A red alert—indicating an extremely dangerous situation—was also issued by the National Meteorological Service for certain areas in the Corrientes, Formosa, Chaco, Misiones, and Santiago del Estero provinces, warning that high temperatures can pose risks to everyone, including healthy individuals.
The ongoing heat wave in Argentina has caused significant disruption, particularly in Buenos Aires, where power outages have left millions without electricity and have led to traffic chaos. The government has issued varying levels of heat alerts to protect vulnerable populations from the extreme temperatures, emphasizing that the situation could threaten everyone’s health. The combination of high temperatures and power disruptions underscores the urgent need for effective responses to climate-related challenges.
Original Source: global.chinadaily.com.cn
