The Amazon River’s largest tributary, the Rio Negro, has reached its lowest level ever recorded in Brazil, according to the country’s geological service. The water level is currently at 13.63 meters, breaking the previous record set in 1963.
The unusually low water levels have been attributed to a severe drought in the region, which experts believe is a result of climate change. This has raised concerns about the impact on the local ecosystem and communities that depend on the river for transportation, fishing, and agriculture.
The drought has caused disruptions in the transportation of goods and people in the region, as well as affecting the availability of fresh water for drinking and irrigation. The low water levels have also impacted fish populations in the river, leading to a decline in the availability of food for local communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods.
Environmental groups have called for urgent action to address the impacts of the drought and to prevent further damage to the Amazon River basin. They argue that measures need to be taken to mitigate the effects of climate change and to protect the health of one of the world’s most important and diverse ecosystems.
The Brazilian government has pledged to monitor the situation closely and provide support to the communities affected by the low water levels. They have also promised to work with international organizations and neighboring countries to develop a coordinated response to the crisis.
In the meantime, local residents are being urged to conserve water and resources as much as possible to help mitigate the effects of the drought. Scientists are also continuing to monitor the situation to assess the long-term impact on the Amazon River basin and to develop strategies to address future challenges.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com