The Rio Negro, one of the largest rivers in the world, is facing a record low water level due to drought and wildfires. Measuring the shallowest depth since 1902 at 12.66 meters, researchers fear levels will continue to drop during the dry season.
As a major tributary of the Amazon River, the Rio Negro plays a vital role in the region, draining over 10 percent of the Amazon River basin’s water. However, the widespread drought is causing environmental and economic crises, with climate change exacerbating dry-season conditions.
The situation is impacting over 40 million people living in the Amazon, who rely on the rivers for essential needs. Businesses along the Rio Negro are suffering, with restaurant owner Erick Santos reporting a 50 percent drop in revenue and shortages of basic food items.
Furthermore, the drought is taking a toll on wildlife, with reports of freshwater dolphins found dead along riverbanks. The Amazon rainforest is also struggling with below-average rainfall and man-made fires, leading to widespread drought across Brazil.
This unprecedented crisis is affecting regions from the North to the Southeast, making it the most intense and widespread drought in history.