he Stifling heat There is no rest in our country and it will intensify in the coming days. According to the meteorologist Leonardo de BenedictisThe absence of rain and high temperatures represent a real challenge for the region Agricultural activity. phenomenon Heat domeWhich some consider “Earthly hell“It is characterized by a mass of hot, dry air trapped over the region, generating climatic conditions Water stress y Atmospheric stability In many lands.
For this ThursdayConditions will be more unstable in some areas of the country Midwest y My light Subordinate nationWith the possibility of rain and storms of varying intensity. In this sector of the region, maximum temperatures can reach 43 degrees. However, in Between rivers The weather is expected to be stable, with varying clouds appearing, and maximum temperatures that may reach 35 degrees. These conditions will be maintained at least until Domingowith thermal records that can exceed 36 degrees In our area.
“The water stress situation has become stronger. Since the beginning of the year, a high pressure area has been centered on the eastern part of the country, which does not allow any moisture to contribute to the central and eastern part of the country, forcing it to enter through the western sector,” he stated. Leonardo de Benedictis.
Millions of Argentines are already suffering the consequences of “hell on earth.”
Turn meteorologist He added, “Atmospheric stability prevails over the entire Pampas region and the Sahel region, while in the west the features of instability persist, with chances of rain and storms of varying intensity both in the Cuyo region and also in the NOA region, although they are partly present in the Salta and Jujuy sector.” The expert concluded: Increase and maintain high temperatures meteor.
What is a heat dome?
and Heat dome It is an atmospheric phenomenon characterized by the formation of a mass of warm air that is trapped in the atmosphere for several days or weeks. This happens when a Area of high atmospheric pressure It settles on an area, compressing and heating the air near the surface. This hot air is “trapped” without being able to disperse, causing very high temperatures for a long period.
The key to this phenomenon lies in the behavior of high pressure: it acts as a kind of lid that prevents hot air from rising, preventing cloud formation and reducing wind circulation. As a result, the heat is gradually intensified due to the impact Insolation warming (Sun energy that directly heats the surface).
Effects of thermal domes
A heat dome can have serious consequences in different areas:
- public health: Persistent high temperatures increase the risk of heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory problems, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
- Ecosystems: They can dry out soil, destroy crops and cause forest fires.
- Infrastructure: The energy demand of cooling systems rises dramatically, which may lead to power outages.
Example and current context
Heat domes are becoming more popular because Climate changewhich increases thermal fluctuations. A recent example occurred in 2021 in northwestern North America, where record temperatures exceeded 45 degrees Celsius, wreaking havoc on communities and ecosystems. These events underscore the need for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
(tags for translation)Weather