Ecuador is experiencing an intense heat wave, with coastal regions facing some of the highest temperatures recorded this year and heat index levels approaching 40°C.
The warning came from the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI), which said the most extreme conditions are occurring between late morning and mid-afternoon, when solar radiation is strongest.
Cities along the coast have been hit hardest. Guayaquil recorded temperatures of 35.6°C, while Santa Rosa reached 35.8°C. Other areas, including Portoviejo and Pichilingue, also reported temperatures above 34°C. Combined with humidity and limited airflow, those readings translate into significantly higher perceived heat levels.
According to INAMHI, the current conditions are being driven by the South Pacific High, a weather system that is pushing warm, dry air into the region. This pattern has reduced cloud cover and rainfall, allowing temperatures to climb more rapidly during the day.
Authorities expect the heat to persist in the short term, particularly in coastal provinces. While the Andean highlands, including cities like Quito and Cuenca, typically experience milder conditions, they are not entirely immune to elevated daytime temperatures.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions. Recommendations include avoiding prolonged sun exposure, staying well hydrated, wearing light clothing, and monitoring official weather updates. The risk of heat-related illness rises sharply during peak hours, especially for older adults, children, and those with underlying health conditions.
For residents and expats, the situation is a reminder of how quickly weather patterns can shift in the region. While Ecuador is not typically associated with extreme heat events of this scale, current conditions highlight the growing variability in climate across the country.
The coming days will determine whether the heat wave eases or continues to intensify along the coast.