The last week of the year brought alarming consequences for the health of the people of Buenos Aires: yesterday, the Emergency Medical Care System (SAME) had to attend to 219 patients due to the heat wave in CABA.
All of them showed symptoms compatible with heat strokes due to the extreme temperatures affecting both the City of Buenos Aires (CABA) and a large part of the country.
The figures reveal the magnitude of the problem: 117 women, 94 men, and eight unidentified people required medical attention.
Among those affected, there were 11 minors, while 41 patients needed to be transferred to different hospitals in Buenos Aires.
Thus, the data from the Comprehensive Public Safety System (SISeP) show the direct impact of extreme temperatures on the population.
In particular, the situation worsened this Tuesday when the thermometer reached 37°C in CABA, the hottest moment.
Orange alert for extreme heat in CABA and much of the country
This week, the last of 2025, the National Meteorological Service (SMN) issued an orange alert for CABA due to the extreme heat.
The projections indicate a sustained increase in both maximum and minimum temperatures due to climate change.
In response, many Argentines suffer from heat strokes. In this regard, Dr. Diego Sánchez Gelós (MN 117.604) from the Hospital de Clínicas of UBA explained more about the issue.
“Heat exhaustion appears before the mechanisms to regulate body temperature are altered,” he detailed.
Regarding the symptoms, the specialist noted that this condition manifests with:
- excessive sweating;
- fatigue;
- weakness;
- cramps;
- red and hot skin.
Additionally, in more severe cases, there may be a fever above 39°C, dry skin, confusion, and mental disorientation, warned Sánchez Gelós.
The action plan of CABA in response to the heat wave
In response to the extreme heat in CABA, the head of Government Jorge Macri presented a special operation, with climate shelters.
“An action plan was immediately activated to ensure a rapid response to the health risks posed by the high temperatures,” explained the Buenos Aires administration.
In particular, CABA set up 252 climate shelters equipped to provide relief and protection to residents from the heat.
These spaces include public buildings, libraries, museums, communal headquarters, and health centers.
There are also outdoor shelters such as the Botanical Garden, Sarmiento, Del Golf, and Olympic parks, as well as the Ecological Reserve.
On the other hand, it was reminded that if medical help is needed, residents should contact SAME at 107.
Additionally, the Buenos Aires government expanded the services at the 17 Healthy Stations located in parks and squares. There, residents can hydrate and access basic check-ups with specialized teams.
“Extreme weather events are occurring more frequently, and the City is prepared to respond in an organized and concrete manner like never before,” said Macri in a press conference from Parque Patricios.
The leader added: “The entire system is ready to respond professionally whenever necessary. With our teams, we are here to protect what we value most: the life and health of the people of Buenos Aires.”
Recommendations to face high temperatures
Health authorities shared fundamental preventive measures to protect health during the heat wave:
- Hydration: drink at least 2 liters daily of cold liquids. Infants should be breastfed more frequently.
- Environments: stay in ventilated, cool, and dry spaces. Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 5 pm.
- Clothing: wear loose, light-colored, lightweight cotton garments. Hats or caps are recommended for sun protection.
- Diet: prioritize fruits and vegetables rich in water. Avoid heavy and abundant meals.
- Physical activity: exercise in the morning or at sunset. Stay hydrated before, during, and after the activity.
