The Negro River, one of the Amazon River’s main tributaries, has hit its lowest level ever recorded, dropping to 12.66 metres at the port of Manaus. This has been attributed to a severe drought that has not only impacted the Amazon rainforest but also other parts of Brazil. The levels are significantly lower than the usual 21 metres, with forecasts suggesting further declines in the coming weeks due to low rainfall in upstream regions.
The dry season this year has been particularly harsh, causing all major rivers in the Amazon basin to reach critical levels. This includes the Madeira River, the Amazon River’s longest tributary. The Negro River, which drains about 10% of the Amazon basin and is the world’s sixth-largest by water volume, plays a crucial role in the region.
The drought has had serious implications for the local population, with basic daily activities becoming impossible. Gracita Barbosa, a 28-year-old cashier working on a floating shop on the Negro River, has been out of work as boats can no longer navigate the low water levels. She now has to travel longer distances to collect drinking water and can no longer bathe in the river.
The situation highlights the urgent need for measures to address the impact of climate change on the Amazon basin. The record low levels of the Negro River serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving this vital ecosystem and finding sustainable solutions to protect it for future generations.
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