Belo Horizonte woke on 1 January with temperatures above 20°C, recording a minimum of 20.6°C before 07:00, the Civil Defence reported. Although forecasters expect a slight easing of the intense heat that affected the region recently, the start of the year remains warm and humid and carries the risk of severe weather later in the day.
Belo Horizonte weather forecast — morning warmth and storm risk
Meteorological services predict partly cloudy to overcast skies with showers, thunderstorms and strong wind gusts likely from the afternoon. The National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) and the Civil Defence warn of possible hail in some areas and advise residents to follow official alerts and safety guidance.
Maximum temperatures in the capital may reach around 31°C, while relative humidity is expected to fall to about 50% during the afternoon. Forecasters say rain could be moderate to heavy in short periods, increasing the chance of flash flooding and localised disruption.
Local temperature readings across Belo Horizonte’s regional districts on the morning of 1 January were:
- Barreiro: 20.2°C at 00:55
- Centro-Sul: 20.6°C at 05:30
- Oeste: 20.2°C (feels like 19.7°C) at 02:00
- Pampulha: 20.2°C (feels like 22.8°C) at 05:00
- Venda Nova: 21.9°C at 05:10
Across Minas Gerais the outlook is similar. INMET expects isolated severe storms in almost all regions during the first days of the year. These events are likely to bring intense rain in short intervals, accompanied by gusty winds and the chance of hail, with lower probability in parts of Jequitinhonha, Mucuri and Rio Doce.
Authorities noted that recent heavy downpours have already caused damage in parts of the state, including landslides and infrastructure impacts in southern municipalities. In neighbouring Uberlândia, for example, strong rain prompted flooding and the temporary closure of Parque do Sabiá.
Looking ahead, meteorologists say a renewed episode of the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (ZCAS) is likely to form over the weekend, extending across much of Minas Gerais and including the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. The convergence zone typically brings prolonged periods of rain and the potential for widespread disruption.
Civil Defence officials and INMET recommend that residents stay informed through official channels, avoid flooded areas, secure loose objects that could be blown away in strong gusts, and take care when travelling. People living in areas prone to flooding or landslides should be particularly vigilant as the situation evolves.
In the short term, expect warm, humid conditions through the morning with a marked increase in convective activity during the afternoon and evening. Those planning outdoor activities should prepare for sudden changes in weather and the possibility of heavy showers and thunderstorms.
Key Takeaways:
- Belo Horizonte recorded a morning low above 20°C, with a minimum of 20.6°C, signalling a warm and humid start to 1 January.
- The Belo Horizonte weather forecast warns of afternoon and evening thunderstorms, heavy rain, gusty winds and possible hail.
- Temperatures could reach 31°C with humidity falling to around 50% in the afternoon; Civil Defence and INMET issue alerts.
- A larger weather system (ZCAS) may affect much of Minas Gerais over the coming days, increasing the risk of intense rainfall and flooding.
