Brazil experiences record rainfall and drought relief

Heavy rainfall across several Brazilian states has led to record-breaking precipitation levels in September. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), eight states and the Federal District have already surpassed their historical monthly rainfall records within the first 15 days of the month.

São Paulo has recorded the highest number of stations exceeding historical marks, with Bragança Paulista seeing nearly triple its previous record. Other states reporting significant increases include Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro.

In southern Brazil, above-average rainfall in August has successfully eliminated all drought conditions in Paraná, ending a period of water scarcity that had persisted in parts of the state for over a year. Data from the National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA) and Simepar indicate that the entire territory of Paraná is now free of drought. This recovery in the South, driven by atypical cold fronts and the El Niño phenomenon, contrasts with the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, where the same phenomenon has contributed to worsening drought conditions.