Many territories are experiencing noticeable effects on the weather due to the action of powerful anticyclonic systems, both in the Americas and in Europe. This atmospheric phenomenon not only causes intense heat waves but also alters cloudiness, humidity, and precipitation dynamics, with varying impacts depending on the region.
While heat records are being broken in northern and northwestern Mexico, On the Peruvian coast, overcast skies, light rain, and reduced wind chills are recorded, while in Andalusia, temperatures soar along with the presence of calima. These variations have one thing in common: the anticyclone, which acts as a regulator of air masses and precipitation, decisively influencing the well-being and daily routines of millions of people.
What is an anticyclone and how does it affect the climate?
An anticyclone is a high atmospheric pressure system in which air descends from upper layers of the atmosphere to the surface, moving clockwise across the northern hemisphere. This dynamic hinders the formation of clouds and, therefore, favors stable, often dry and clear weather. However, its persistence can lead to episodes of intense heat, droughts, or phenomena such as calima and temperature inversion.
The main effects of the anticyclone include:
- Rising temperatures and stifling nights in summer.
- Reduction of precipitation, which sometimes leads to drought.
- Increased low cloud cover or fog in coastal areas.
- Accumulation of pollutants near the ground in urban areas.
The anticyclone in northern Mexico: extreme heat wave
According to National Meteorological Service, a high-intensity anticyclone has settled over northern and northwestern Mexico, preventing the entry of moisture and promoting a situation of persistent heat.
Temperatures have exceeded 45 ºC in Baja California, Sonora and Chihuahua, and similar values are expected in other areas such as Sinaloa, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and Campeche. The thermal sensation increases even more when there is humidity in the environment, and experts recommend taking extra precautions, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 16:00 p.m.
- Wear light and light-colored clothing.
- Drink water constantly without waiting until you are thirsty.
- Avoid leaving people or pets in vehicles.
- Check that the animals have shade and water available.
The persistence of the anticyclone also leads to heat waves that can affect health, increasing the risk of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
This anticyclonic blockage in Andalusia generates high temperatures and associated phenomena
In southern Europe, especially in Andalusia, The presence of a powerful anticyclone is favoring mid-summer temperatures, with highs close to 40ºC and lows that, in certain places, do not drop below 25ºC at night.
This system, in a blocking format, is accompanied by two low pressures on either side, which enhances thermal rise and atmospheric stability. In addition to the heat, we observe suspended dust and, occasionally, mud showers, a common phenomenon when calima and brief rainfall coincide.
The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued yellow and orange warnings for areas such as the Seville and Cordoba countryside, the Guadalquivir Valley, and parts of Huelva and Jaén. Authorities emphasize the need to take extreme precautions during days of extremely high temperatures and to maintain hydration, especially among vulnerable groups.
The South Pacific Anticyclone and its effects on Peru
On the Peruvian coast, the strengthening of the South Pacific Anticyclone is causing marked changes in weather conditions, especially in regions such as Lima, Callao, Ica, and Arequipa. Senamhi has issued a yellow-level alert due to increased winds (up to 35 km/h), increased cloudiness, fog, and episodes of drizzle.
These circumstances generate a significant reduction in visibility On streets and roads, there is a more pronounced feeling of cold and high humidity, with levels that can reach 90% in the early hours of the day and at dusk. The anticyclone acts as a natural barrier against heavy rains, becoming the main cause of coastal dryness, but it also causes light drizzle or dense fog, especially when it intensifies.
Senamhi recommends:
- Avoid outdoor exertion in windy areas.
- Wear clothing that helps combat the cold and humidity.
- Do not neglect driving on wet roads or in thick fog.
- Pay special attention to children, the elderly, and people with respiratory problems.
- Please check official notices and updates to stay ahead of possible changes.
Coastal areas near the sea, such as Chorrillos and Callao, are especially vulnerable to these effects. Electronic, real-time monitoring allows for monitoring the evolution of the system and appropriate preventive measures.
The weather forecast of the last few days highlights the growing importance of anticyclones as climate regulators in different regions of the planet. From the lack of rainfall and the multiplication of heat waves in Mexico, to the rise in temperature and haze in Andalusia, to the drop in temperatures and increased humidity on the Peruvian coast, Vigilance by authorities and preparedness by citizens are key to facing these sudden changes in the weather.