The river port in Manaus, located in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, is facing a crisis as it experiences its lowest water level since 1902. The severe drought is impacting the region’s transportation of goods, including grain exports and essential supplies.
Measured at 12.66 meters, the water level at the Port of Manaus on the Rio Negro river has surpassed last year’s all-time low. The port’s head of operations predicts that the water level will continue to decrease in the coming weeks.
The drought, exacerbated by below-average rainfall attributed to climate change, has affected both the Amazon region and other parts of South America. Scientists warn that the Amazon may not fully recover moisture levels until 2026.
Last year, the drought led to a humanitarian crisis, leaving many without access to necessities. This year, authorities are prepared as over half a million people in the Amazonas state are already affected by the emergency situation.
The ongoing impact of the drought signals a repeat or further intensification of last year’s challenges, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of climate change.