Heat Levels in Rio de Janeiro: Thermal Inequality and the heat protocol

Desigualdade térmica e o protocolo de calor

Abstract

The intense heat waves in Rio de Janeiro in recent years have highlighted the city’s existing socio-spatial inequalities. This study compares heat index values recorded by official meteorological stations of the Alerta Rio system with those measured at pedestrian level, taking into account the morphological and socioeconomic characteristics of the analyzed areas. Data were collected in nine neighborhoods with varying urban features and social indicators. The results show that pedestrian-level heat indices are generally higher than those recorded by meteorological stations, with differences reaching up to 6 °C. Neighborhoods with greater tree coverage, such as Jardim Botânico, recorded lower heat indices, even in less shaded areas. The analysis underscores the need to improve official thermal monitoring protocols, particularly by incorporating data that reflect the actual, on-the-ground experience of the population. Moreover, the findings reveal a clear relationship between socio-spatial variables and the intensity of heat experienced in the urban environment, reinforcing the importance of integrating these variables into urban planning strategies.