Chile's Meteorological Directorate issued a warning for high temperatures affecting seven regions on Monday, December 8, with peaks up to 33 degrees Celsius in some areas. The event stems from a high-pressure ridge producing warm descending air. Significant temperature rises are forecast in specific zones of Coquimbo, Valparaíso, and other central-southern regions.
Chile's Meteorological Directorate (DMC) has warned of a high-temperature episode expected in the afternoon of Monday, December 8, affecting seven regions across the country. This weather pattern, triggered by a high-pressure ridge—an extension of an anticyclone in the upper atmosphere that delivers warm descending air—will lead to notable increases in daily maximums.
In the Coquimbo region, nearly the entire area will be impacted, while Valparaíso will see effects along its coast. The Maule, Ñuble, and Biobío regions will experience rises in their pre-Andean areas, valleys, and coastal mountain ranges. In La Araucanía and Los Ríos, the heat will focus on valleys and coastal ranges, with temperatures potentially hitting 33°C in the most affected spots.
The DMC notes that this atmospheric setup promotes drier and warmer conditions, which could affect public health and daily routines. Officials advise precautions such as staying hydrated and limiting sun exposure, particularly during peak hours. No additional alerts for fire risks are mentioned in this initial warning, though the situation is under observation.
Such events highlight seasonal trends in Chile's central-southern areas, where subtropical ridges are typical in the Southern Hemisphere summer, varying in strength year to year.