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Amazon Heatwave Causes Dolphin Deaths and Fish Loss

11/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2023, unprecedented heat and drought in Brazil's Amazon raised lake temperatures above 41 C (105.8 F).
A 2023 study found more than 200 freshwater dolphins died at Lake Tefé as water levels dropped.
Researchers cite drought, murky water, and low winds as heat drivers that isolated river communities.
The study notes 3,000 fish died in an aquaculture pond and Amazon lakes have warmed about 0.6 C per decade.

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Story summary

In 2023, unprecedented heat and drought in Brazil's Amazon raised lake temperatures above 41 C (105.8 F).
A 2023 study found more than 200 freshwater dolphins died at Lake Tefé as water levels dropped.
Researchers cite drought, murky water, and low winds as heat drivers that isolated river communities.
The study notes 3,000 fish died in an aquaculture pond and Amazon lakes have warmed about 0.6 C per decade.