Brazil fire brigades battle intense Amazon fires in early 2024.

The Brazilian Amazon is facing a dire situation as the area burnt nearly doubled in the first seven months of 2024 compared to last year, reaching the largest extent since 2004. Satellite data from INPE shows that fires have consumed a staggering 26,246km²— equivalent to the size of the U.S. state of Maryland or Rwanda.

With fires typically peaking in August and September before the arrival of seasonal rains, conditions are expected to worsen. Last year’s late and weak rains, exacerbated by an El Nino weather pattern intensified by climate change, have left the rainforest particularly vulnerable to this year’s fires.

Not only are the Amazon fires escalating, but the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil have also experienced record-setting fires in June. Despite President Lula’s commitment to combat illegal deforestation, a recent study revealed that fires can release more carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.

While early efforts against illegal logging showed progress, the battle to halt deforestation remains challenging. Recent data from INPE indicates a rise in deforestation in July compared to the previous year, prompting a call for urgent action to protect the Amazon.