In the recent past, Brazil has experienced its most severe drought.
This country, Brazil, is currently experiencing its most severe drought in recorded history, as stated by news source G1, using data from the National Center for Natural Disasters Monitoring (Cemaden). Over one-third of its territory, equating to around three million square kilometers, is currently in the grips of extreme dryness. This drought is the most intense and extensive since systematic data collection started in 1950.
Scientist Ana Paula Cunha from Cemaden noted, "We've never witnessed such an expansive and intense drought before." Previously, droughts would affect isolated regions, but this time, it's a widespread issue. "This is a major challenge the country is facing," she added.
Consequently, several northern cities are isolated due to the unnavigable rivers caused by low water levels. Moreover, hydropower generation is at risk. Fires are also rampant in various regions of the South American nation, resulting in respiratory issues for the residents.
Scientists attribute this extreme drought to a mix of factors. Weather phenomenon El Niño raises temperatures and, particularly in the north, reduces rainfall. The presence of stationary high-pressure systems hinders the passage of cold fronts that could potentially bring rain. The warming of the northern tropical Atlantic extends the dry period.
The history of droughts in Brazil has never been as severe as the current one, with scientist Ana Paula Cunha from Cemaden noting that this is the most intense and extensive drought the country has ever witnessed since systematic data collection began in 1950. This historical drought has led to several challenges, including isolated northern cities due to unnavigable rivers, at-risk hydropower generation, and rampant fires causing respiratory issues for residents.
