The Amazon and Other Ecosystems in Brazil Facing Record Wildfires in 2024
The Amazon and other ecosystems in Brazil are experiencing a devastating surge in wildfires in 2024. According to a report released on Monday, the first six months of the year have seen a record number of wildfires in these regions.
Data from Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research shows that the Amazon has witnessed 13,489 wildfires in the first half of the year, marking a staggering increase of over 61% compared to the same period last year. Only in the years 2003 and 2004 have more fires been recorded in the first six months since records began in 1998.
Furthermore, the Pantanal wetlands have been hit hard, with 3,538 wildfires recorded — the worst six-month period ever documented and an increase of more than 2000% from the previous year. Similarly, the Cerrado, one of the world’s major savanna regions, has seen 13,229 wildfires.
Reasons Behind the Rising Wildfires
Experts and state officials have pointed to climate change as a significant factor driving the increase in wildfires in the Amazon and other regions. Romulo Batista, a spokesperson for the Brazilian branch of Greenpeace, highlighted that the lack of rain has put the Amazon under stress.
“The environment is drier, and thus vegetation is more dried out and more vulnerable to fires,” Batista explained.
In the Pantanal, a significant wetland area known for its rich biodiversity, government officials have attributed the spike in wildfires to a severe drought.
“The Pantanal is facing the worst drought in 70 years, exacerbated by climate change and one of the strongest El Niños in history,” stated Brazil’s Environmental Ministry.
It is evident that urgent action is needed to address the alarming increase in wildfires and protect these vital ecosystems before irreparable damage is done.
