Brazilian towns Araçatuba and Teresópolis prepare for dry‑season fire risk

Civil defense authorities in the Brazilian municipalities of Araçatuba (São Paulo state) and Teresópolis (Rio de Janeiro state) warned residents that low humidity and an extended dry period increase the danger of vegetation fires and could strain water supplies. In Araçatuba, officials noted that relative humidity is expected to drop to 30 % or lower, a critical level that favors rapid fire spread. The local civil defense coordinator, Eduardo Cardozo, urged people to avoid open flames, discard cigarette butts properly, and report any smoke sightings to the fire department (193). The municipality has reinforced its response capacity with over 1,700 fire‑fighting tools supplied during a regional civil‑defense meeting and participates in the state’s “Operation No Fire” program.

In Teresópolis, the municipal civil‑defense secretary, Lieutenant‑Colonel Mariana Antunes, said the city has activated its “Winter Plan,” a coordinated drought‑response strategy involving the fire brigade, police, environmental agencies and the state environment institute. Risk zones have been mapped, focusing on the second and third districts, and community protection units are providing training. Officials also highlighted potential water‑supply impacts and called for rational water use. Both towns emphasized public cooperation in preventing fires and conserving water during the drought.

Residents in both locations are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat, and keep indoor environments humidified where possible.