Brazil is facing its most widespread and severe drought in over 70 years, with vast areas experiencing wildfires and river levels dropping to historic lows.
Fabiano Maisonnave reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- 59% of Brazil is suffering from drought, with the Amazon and major rivers hitting record low water levels.
- Uncontrolled wildfires, fueled by manmade causes, have ravaged areas including national parks, worsening air quality across regions like Sao Paulo.
- Indigenous communities in drought-hit areas lack clean water and food as rivers dry up and crops fail.
Key quote:
“This used to be the Amazon River. Now it’s a desert. If things get worse, our people will disappear. Now we are realizing the severity of climate change.”
— Myrian Tikuna, local leader
Why this matters:
The drought and wildfires are devastating Brazil's ecosystems and threatening the lives of its Indigenous populations. Climate change and deforestation are intensifying these environmental crises, which could have lasting global impacts.
For more: Climate change will continue to widen gaps in food security, new study finds
