Wildfires in Mato Grosso, Brazil

Wildfires have been reported across the state of Mato Grosso, prompting significant firefighting operations by the Mato Grosso Military Fire Department (CBMMT).

In early September, crews utilized ground teams and three aircraft to extinguish a forest fire at Morro de Santo Antônio in Santo Antônio de Leverger. The operation involved approximately 85,000 liters of water drops, and while rainfall assisted in control, firefighters remained on-site to monitor for reignition.

Subsequent reports indicate ongoing activity across the state. In Poconé, an individual was arrested after being caught starting a fire in the Encontro das Águas State Park. In Cáceres, firefighters successfully extinguished two separate blazes near a company and a residential area. Authorities have noted that fire use is strictly prohibited in the Amazon, Cerrado, and Pantanal biomes from July 1 to November 30, and that provoking such fires is a federal crime.

Recent reports confirm continued incidents in Mato Grosso, including the previously noted arrest in Encontro das Águas State Park and fire suppression efforts in Cáceres. Beyond Mato Grosso, investigations are underway in Amazonas regarding a large fire in Maués suspected to be an intentional act. Additionally, in Rio Grande do Sul, a fire in Passa Sete—believed to have spread from controlled branch burning due to wind—destroyed eucalyptus and wood supplies. To bolster environmental defense, Maranhão Military Firefighters are utilizing R$ 45 million from the Amazon Fund to acquire new trucks, 4x4 vehicles, and specialized equipment.