Firefighters Battle Wildfires in Brazil’s National Park Amid Historic Drought

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Firefighters in Brazil are working to contain wildfires that have burned through 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres) of the Brasilia National Park, sending smoke into the capital, Brasilia. More than 490 firefighters, with support from aircraft and helicopters, are focused on controlling four major fire fronts in the park's eastern region.

The fires, driven by strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures, are believed to have been caused by human activity, according to ICMBio, the agency responsible for the park. Federal police are currently investigating the cause.

This wildfire outbreak is occurring during a historic drought in Brazil, the worst in over 70 years, affecting more than half of the country. In addition to the fires in Brasilia National Park, recent blazes have impacted the Amazon rainforest, Cerrado savanna, and Pantanal wetlands, leading to reduced air quality in affected regions.

To address the situation, Brazil’s Supreme Court has approved additional resources for firefighting efforts, including increased funding and personnel.