BRAZIL DROUGHT DROPS AMAZON PORT RIVER LEVEL TO 122-YEAR LOW

The Port of Manaus in Brazil’s Amazon hit a record low water level on October 4, 2023, due to severe drought, impacting grain exports and essential supplies. Since last year, low rainfall has worsened wildfires and hindered river-based transport, creating a humanitarian crisis. Scientists link this to climate change and predict the region may not fully recover until 2026. Currently, 62 municipalities in Amazonas are in a state of emergency, affecting over half a million people. Energy concerns are rising as hydropower plants struggle, prompting consideration of daylight saving time to conserve power. Drought and extreme heat are affecting much of South America, with historic lows in rivers and record-breaking fires in the Amazon, Pantanal, and Bolivia.
Source: Reuters / Datamar News