The Port of Manaus, situated on the Rio Negro—the largest left tributary of the Amazon River—has recorded its lowest water level since 1902. On Friday, measurements showed the river at just 12.66 meters, surpassing the previous all-time low set last year.
Valmir Mendonca, the port's head of operations, warned, \"This is now the most severe drought in over 120 years of measurement at the Port of Manaus.\" He added that water levels are likely to continue falling for another week or two, exacerbating the already strained transport of grain exports and essential supplies crucial to the region's livelihood.
Since last year, the Amazon and much of South America have been grappling with below-average rainfall, even during the rainy season. This persistent drought has not only disrupted waterways but also fueled the worst wildfires in over a decade across Brazil and Bolivia. Climate change has been identified as the primary driver behind these extreme weather patterns.
Scientists forecast that the Amazon region may not see a full recovery in moisture levels until 2026. Last year’s drought escalated into a humanitarian crisis, leaving thousands stranded without access to food, water, or medicine. This year, authorities remain on high alert. In the Amazonas state alone, at least 62 municipalities are under a state of emergency, affecting more than half a million people, according to the state's civil defense corps.
With seasonal rains remaining weaker than usual, the region faces the grim possibility of last year's drought repeating itself or even reaching new extremes. The ongoing water shortage threatens not only the environment but also the economic and social stability of one of the world's most vital rainforest areas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
