Devastating Wildfires: Climate Change Threatens Brazil's Pantanal

Climate change has intensified the weather conditions feeding wildfires in Brazil's Pantanal, likely killing millions of animals. The fires, fueled by hot, dry winds, surged unusually early this year, with scientists forecasting even hotter conditions ahead. Human activities further exacerbate the situation.

Climate change has drastically intensified weather conditions, exacerbating wildfires that have likely resulted in the deaths of millions of animals in Brazil's Pantanal, the world's largest wetlands, according to a study released Thursday.

Scientific research by World Weather Attribution indicates that the hot, dry, and windy conditions this year are four to five times more likely due to climate change. The Pantanal, rich in water and located between diverse ecosystems, is a haven for rare wildlife and tourists. However, the fires, which traditionally occur between July and September, began in late May this year, threatening to surpass the 2020 record.

Filippe Santos, a study co-author, warned that the current wildfires could become the worst ever, with even hotter conditions anticipated. UFRJ data show that nearly 10% of the Pantanal has burned this year, indicating a significant increase. As climate change progresses, the region is expected to become even hotter and drier, often sparked by human activities like land clearing.

(With inputs from agencies.)