STORY: Wildfires in the wetlands of Brazil’s Pantanal so far this year have increased almost tenfold compared to 2023.
According to local media on Tuesday, official satellite data showed a 980% increase in fires in the Pantanal by June 5, compared to the same period the previous year.
The numbers have raised alarm as the peak of the bushfire season approaches.
These are the highest levels seen since 2020.
Light rains since late last year have disrupted seasonal flooding, making the region more vulnerable to fires.
And in the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, the terrain makes fighting these fires difficult, according to Marcio Yule of Brazil’s Ministry of the Environment.
“It is an area that is difficult to access, with underground fires as well. These peat fires make fighting them even more difficult.”
:: Courtesy: Instituto Homem Pantaneiro
The latest increase in fires follows unusual fires in late 2023 when El Niño delayed the rainy season.
In November, more than 4,000 fires were recorded, compared to the historical average of 584.
On Wednesday, Brazil signed a pact with the governors of the Pantanal and Amazon to combat forest fires.
The state of Mato Grosso do Sul, where part of the humid areas are located, has already declared an environmental emergency.
