Detection and Projections of Climate Change in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Climate change projections for Rio de Janeiro reveal significant increases in extreme weather events, with heavy rainfall becoming more frequent and intense, particularly in the city's forest regions. Observational data from INMET's weather stations and future projections using INPE’s Eta-HadCM3 regional model indicate that by the end of the 21st century, rainfall amounts during heavy precipitation could rise substantially, while dry periods will lengthen and wet seasons shorten. Temperature trends show a marked warming, with maximum temperatures projected to increase by 2–5°C above current levels, and minimum temperatures by 2–4°C. By 2100, hot days and nights are expected to dominate, accounting for 40% to 70% of days and 55% to 85% of nights, with no cold days or nights remaining. These findings underscore the urgent need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on Rio de Janeiro's vulnerable landscapes.

Dereczynski, C., Silva, W. L., & Marengo, J. (2013). Detection and Projections of Climate Change in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. American Journal of Climate Change, 02(01), 25–33. https://doi.org/10.4236/ajcc.2013.21003