Brazil's Historic Drought Crisis

Brazil is grappling with its worst drought in decades, primarily affecting the Amazon region. The Rio Negro has reached historic lows, impacting water levels in Manaus and disrupting daily life for residents.

Boat operator Raimundo Filho is among those struggling without income due to the extreme conditions. Experts attribute the crisis to climate change and the El Niño phenomenon, which have intensified the alternation between floods and droughts.

Over a third of Brazil is impacted, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency in more than 60 municipalities. The drought has also severely affected hydroelectric power generation, leading energy officials to implement summer measures.

With projections indicating continued low rainfall, local communities face significant challenges, making basic activities increasingly difficult. This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for effective climate strategies to mitigate such extreme weather events.