Extreme heat remains a serious public health issue in Argentina, especially during the summer months, heavily affecting lower-income communities who often lack access to air conditioning and even basic fans. Medical experts, such as epidemiologist Carlos Ferreyra, have noted that many deaths attributable to heat are not officially recorded as such; chronic patients are particularly vulnerable as extreme temperatures can severely impact their health conditions.

Historically, classes in Argentina would start after March 15, which somewhat alleviated the discomfort of high temperatures. However, changes to the academic calendar, moving the start of the school year to February, have resulted in students enduring significant heat without adequate respite. This situation is exemplified in the city of Santiago del Estero, where classes commenced on January 18, subjecting students to extreme heat for several weeks with little relief.

The implications of this shift in school scheduling are profound; not only does heat affect students’ learning capabilities and overall health, but it also highlights larger issues of equity in public health and education access in Argentina. As the country grapples with extreme weather patterns, it must consider how to better protect its most vulnerable populations and reassess academic schedules accordingly.