Roraima declares state of emergency due to severe drought

The government of Roraima has declared a 180-day state of emergency due to a severe drought affecting the region. Governor Soldado Sampaio established the Integrated Cabinet of Operation El Niño 2026-2027, which will involve 19 state agencies to coordinate responses to water scarcity and forest fires.

The drought has already caused significant agricultural losses, with production of crops such as corn and soy dropping by 30% or more. River levels have fallen drastically; in Boa Vista, the Branco River reached 1.38 meters, which is 70.3% below the historical average for August. These low levels are impacting navigability and the livelihoods of rural, riverside, and indigenous communities.

To address water shortages, the Roraima Water and Sewage Company (Caer) will begin drilling wells in affected areas. Additionally, the dry conditions have increased fire risks, with the National Institute for Space Research (Inpe) reporting 87 heat spots in the state as of late August, surpassing the previous record for the month.