Brazil faces widespread wildfires amid severe drought

Brazil is facing a severe period of drought and high temperatures, leading to an escalation in wildfires and environmental emergencies across multiple states.

In Acre, the Fire Department has recorded over 6,000 interventions through its 'Fogo Controlado 2026' operation, with the majority focused on prevention. In Minas Gerais, the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte saw 136 forest fire calls within a single 24-hour period, including a large-scale blaze in the Serra do Gandarela.

In São Paulo, Civil Defense has issued alerts regarding the danger of hot air balloons, which have caused 12 incidents since June, posing risks to forests, homes, and power lines. Meanwhile, in Porto Velho, authorities are intensifying efforts to combat urban and forest fires exacerbated by El Niño conditions. In Tocantins, Ibama has notified 699 rural properties to prevent fires, with potential fines reaching R$ 10 million.