How are residents in the Bateau Muje favela coping with the extreme heat in Rio de Janeiro?

In the Bateau Muje favela located in western Rio de Janeiro, residents are employing simple but effective cooling strategies to combat the severe heatwave. Their primary method involves dousing themselves with water to reduce their body temperature amid unbearable conditions where temperatures have reached up to 44 degrees Celsius. This community is particularly vulnerable as favelas often function as urban heat islands, intensifying the already extreme temperatures. These cooling efforts have become essential for daily survival as the city faces a level four heat alert, all while preparations for the upcoming Carnival festivities continue despite the challenging climate conditions.