The Amazon River’s tributary, the Negro River, has reached its lowest level ever recorded, causing devastation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest. The river’s water level at the port of Manaus is currently at 12.66 meters, significantly lower than the normal level of 21 meters. Experts predict that the water level may continue to drop in the coming weeks due to forecasts of low rainfall in upstream regions.
This severe drought has affected all major rivers in the Amazon basin, including the Madeira River, the longest tributary of the Amazon River. The drought has made basic daily activities impossible for locals, with one woman, Gracita Barbosa, unable to work as a cashier due to boats being unable to navigate the low river levels. Barbosa also faces challenges in collecting drinking water as she is no longer able to bathe in the river and must travel longer distances.
The geological service’s hydrology manager in Manaus, Andre Martinelli, stated that the river is expected to continue receding until the end of the month. The Negro River drains about 10% of the Amazon basin and is the world’s sixth-largest by water volume. The dry season this year has been particularly severe, exacerbating the effects of the drought on the region. The situation highlights the urgent need for action to address the environmental challenges facing the Amazon rainforest and the communities that depend on its rivers for their livelihoods.
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