Amazon wildfires soar to new heights amid severe drought
In Brazil, the Amazon is experiencing unprecedented wildfires, which have affected the largest area of forests in 17 years. Over 137,000 forest fires were recorded from January to December 2024.
This year, wildfires in the Brazilian Amazon have reached their greatest extent in 17 years, as confirmed by Brazil's Institute for Space Research. "Many residents of the Amazon have lost everything, their entire life's work," the Institute reports. By early December, 137,538 fires had been recorded, with only some brought under control. The only worse year was 2007, with 186,480 fires.
Compared to last year, the number of fires has increased by 43 per cent. The Institute for Space Research indicates that most of the fires result from intentional arson related to cattle ranching and illegal mining.
Brazilian authorities and international organisations like FAO accept controlled logging and burning of forests. These actions allow for the acquisition of agricultural and pasture land, benefiting the indigenous population of these regions and helping reduce poverty.
Drought and fires
This year's drought has contributed to the number of fires. In Brazil, it did not rain for about five months. The Brazilian central authorities emphasise that only 30 per cent of the Amazon's territory is under their direct control, with the remainder under local authorities. The federal government made a pact with the governors of the Amazon states, enabling the mobilisation and engagement of all resources needed to combat the fires.
Currently, 1,700 specialists, 11 aeroplanes, 300 fire vehicles, and over 20 watercraft are participating in firefighting operations. The joint efforts aim to control the situation and protect the "lungs of the world" from further destruction. These resources are fighting the 578 ongoing fires in the Brazilian jungle.
