A map illustrating the number of wildfires across South America at present, showing a high concentration in Brazil. Civil defense authorities are recommending that residents remain indoors and keep hydrated for their own safety.
A map illustrating the number of wildfires across South America at present, showing a high concentration in Brazil. Civil defense authorities are recommending that residents remain indoors and keep hydrated for their own safety.
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Jesem Orellana, an epidemiologist and researcher at Manaus’ Fiocruz Institute, is concerned about the increased health risks this presents.
“Those working outside inhale more dangerous particles, which exacerbates their health issues,” he said. Orellana also highlights the psychological toll, with the smoke causing anxiety and disrupting sleep.
The State University of Amazonas’ environmental monitoring system has classified many areas as having “very bad” or “terrible” air quality.
Beyond immediate health impacts, the fires contribute to global climate change by prohibiting the rainforest’s role in carbon sequestration.
A barely-visible skyline through thick air in Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil, on Aug. 27, 2024. Residents of Manaus typically anticipate “the smoke of death” around mid-September and October, when fires and deforestation peak. However, this…
A barely-visible skyline through thick air in Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil, on Aug. 27, 2024. Residents of Manaus typically anticipate “the smoke of death” around mid-September and October, when fires and deforestation peak. However, this year, the smoke began to be a significant issue much earlier.
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AP Photo/Edmar Barros
In Manaus, the largest city in the Amazon, the term “smoke of death” has become a grim marker of the fire season.
Residents expect to endure a smoky haze around mid-September and October, but this year it began much earlier, extending the period of exposure. Maria Soledade Barros Silva, a local from the Ponta Negra neighborhood, described the situation as “not normal.”
“I’ve lived here for 40 years. We didn’t have this before.”
During peak fire seasons, the AQI in Manaus and other affected areas often reaches hazardous levels, sometimes exceeding 300. For comparison, an AQI over 200 is considered very unhealthy, and levels above 300 fall into the hazardous category.
The smoke is not only a health hazard but also affects local economies. Navigation on waterways, which are crucial for transportation and commerce in the region, has become more complicated due to reduced visibility.
Additionally, the thick smog has hindered recreational and social activities, providing those stuck indoors with very little to look forward to.
Silva, who lives farther up the Purus River in Labrea, also said she had never seen anything like this before.
“I think this is the worst place in the world. We are asking for help, because we can’t live like this anymore,” she said.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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Publish date : 2024-08-29 07:54:00
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