What happens in a region when the temperature rises to such a point that it is not prepared to face its implications and consequences? Here that point was 37 ºC, but it could be 45 ºC or 50 ºC or 55 ºC. The breaking point of heat waves or heat wave it is relative, not absolute.
Before noon in the subway the cars are practically empty. A woman hangs a fan around her neck. The travelers look at each other, in that way in which those who are part of an emergency look at each other, trying to find an explanation, consolation, some clue in the eyes of others. Certain arrival now, all routes to the east of the city on one of the main subway lines are cancelled.
There are problems in the underground transportation system, in the elevated system, in the trucks, in the ships, in the flights. The streets melt. There are several fires. Several establishments close. The corner cafe is closed, the British Museum bookshop is closed. The most touristic points of the city are almost empty or are closed. People walk. At 38 ºC they are walking.
There is nowhere to refill the thermos of water, there is nowhere to have shade, there is nowhere to take a break, there is nowhere to enter the bathroom. It only remains to keep walking. In King’s Cross Station there are several people on the street, they protect themselves from the sun and explain their situation to those who arrive after walking. There is little willingness and patience to listen.
The platform begins to fill up. And more and more and more people keep coming. This time the cars are full but in complete silence. The laughter, the songs, the talks are not heard. Gone is that collective exaltation. The Sun no longer excites. Now burn, cala. And only leaves silence… and fear.
This heat wave will pass very soon. It will rain in the next few hours. But what would happen if the temperatures did not drop, if they remained that way for weeks or months. Would everyday life stop? Who could go on with her? What would be required to maintain it? What would be the implications and consequences of that being required?
