Never before has planet Earth experienced such warm temperatures with average values of up to 17 °C. | Photo: EFE

Santiago de Chile, July 23 (RHC)-- The lead scientist and climatologist at the University of Santiago de Chile, Raúl Cordero, stated that high temperatures of up to 39 degrees Celsius (ºC) could be registered in the Chilean capital during this summer due to the El Niño phenomenon.

In line with recent heat waves recorded in the northern hemisphere, with extreme data that have exceeded 50°C in some areas, Cordero noted that Santiago de Chile could surpass the current record of 38.3°C set in January 2019.  

The meteorologist warned that these conditions could aggravate the ongoing drought.   "This year's high temperatures are not only consequences of the global warming push, El Niño is also pushing global temperature upwards," meaning that "if it persists towards the end of the year, the next austral summer (including Chile) could also be marked by record temperatures."

In the global context, Cordero pointed out that this represents uncharted territory for mankind, as never before has such a warm planet been experienced. The average worldwide figure has completed two consecutive weeks at record values, reaching approximately 17°C since last July 3rd.

In this sense, the specialist stated that the authorities and the population in general should be aware of these projections and prepare to face a potentially extremely hot summer.  It is also crucial to implement fire prevention and control measures to avoid a disastrous season in terms of forest fires.