The Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland in Brazil, is under threat as firefighters battle intense wildfires. Home to iconic wildlife like jaguars and giant river otters, close to 32,000 hectares have already been destroyed in Mato Grosso do Sul state. Climate experts note that this year’s wildfire season has started earlier and is more severe than previous years, with a 935% increase in fires compared to last year.
High winds and less rain have hindered firefighting efforts, with conditions ripe for fires to spread. Concerns are growing as the peak of the dry season approaches in August and September. The Brazilian government has declared an environmental state of emergency and pledged to work with state governments to combat wildfires more effectively.