Drought eases in the North Region, but affects areas of the Amazon basin

Even with the rising water levels of rivers in the Amazon, the latest update of the Drought Monitor, for April, indicated the presence of the phenomenon in 25,28% of the Amazon River Basin (RH Amazônica). This situation is explained by the above-average rainfall recorded in neighboring countries, such as Peru and Colombia, which are responsible for feeding the rivers in the upper part of the basin, while Brazilian municipalities in lower areas are still suffering from local drought.

Since February, the Monitor has been indicating a regression of the drought in the North region. The affected area went from 58% in February to 29% in April. The severity of the phenomenon also decreased during the period: areas with severe drought decreased from 13% to 2%.

The current drought is considered long-term, as the accumulated rainfall deficits over the past 12 to 24 months are still significant. This classification encompasses the effects of one of the most severe droughts ever recorded in the Amazon.

Amazonian HR

The Amazon Region represents 45% of the national territory, covers seven states and contains 81% of Brazil's surface water. Despite the abundance of water, the region still faces challenges associated with climate change and extreme events.