Amazon fires surge amid El Niño, climate change

Fires have surged in Brazil's Amazon region in October, with officials suspecting deliberate arson exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon and climate change. Amazonas state recorded 1,679 fires in the first two weeks of the month, a 253% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data from the country's Amazon surveillance system.

The blazes have sent plumes of smoke across the sky, causing respiratory problems for residents and leading to states of emergency in at least 36 municipalities across Amazonas. Luiz Rios, a retired farmer in the Autazes municipality, described the situation as critical, struggling to breathe at night. Poor air quality has also led to the cancellation of outdoor events in Manaus, the state's capital, and the closure of public schools.

While August and September are typically the driest months in the Amazon, with fires becoming harder to control before the rainy season brings relief in October, this year's rains have been slow. Scientists and officials attribute the intensity of the fires to extreme water and heat stress, compounded by human activity. Brazil's federal government and civil defense have deployed aircraft and brigade crews to Amazonas to combat the flames. The environment minister observed fires within protected forest areas, suggesting deliberate arson aimed at clearing land for deforestation, and the ministry has promised an investigation.