Campinas Region Swings 20°C in a Day: Experts Advise on Protection

Residents in the Campinas region of São Paulo, Brazil, experienced a significant temperature fluctuation of nearly 20 degrees Celsius on Thursday, May 16th. In Morungaba, temperatures ranged from a low of 4.2°C in the morning to a high of 24°C in the early afternoon, a variation of 19.8°C. Tuiuti saw a swing of 18.3°C (4.7°C to 23°C), and Monte Mor recorded a 19.5°C difference (5.5°C to 25°C), according to data from Ciiagro. Meteorologist Ana Ávila from Cepagri-Unicamp explained that this oscillation is common during this time of year due to a high-pressure system influencing the region. This system causes air to descend, becoming drier and inhibiting cloud formation. The absence of clouds allows solar radiation to easily heat the ground during the day, leading to rapid temperature increases. Conversely, at night, heat is rapidly lost to the atmosphere without cloud cover, causing temperatures to drop sharply. This phenomenon, known as radiative cooling, results in intense cold in the early morning and significant warmth by the afternoon. The dry air and high afternoon temperatures can dry out respiratory passages, increasing the risk of allergic reactions. Conversely, the morning and evening cold can lead to people congregating in enclosed, heated spaces, facilitating the spread of respiratory viruses. To mitigate these effects, experts recommend dressing in layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, even on cooler days, and using nasal saline, eye drops, or humidifiers indoors can help combat dryness and reduce airborne dust, thereby lessening allergic symptoms. Special attention should be paid to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, who are more susceptible to the combined effects of temperature swings and low humidity.