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Amazon Drought: 4.2 M ha Burned, Deficits Rise 9%

5/31/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

INPE researchers report water deficits over –150 mm, a 9% rise in burned area, and dry seasons in the Amazon.
The 2023-2024 drought saw fires burn 4.2 million hectares, warnings rose 19%, and scientists use MCWD metric to track stress slowing growth and raising fire risk.
Researchers, including Dr. Liana Anderson of the TREES project, warn a “super El Niño” above 2 °C could intensify droughts and urge action to meet 2030 climate goals.

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Story summary

INPE researchers report water deficits over –150 mm, a 9% rise in burned area, and dry seasons in the Amazon.
The 2023-2024 drought saw fires burn 4.2 million hectares, warnings rose 19%, and scientists use MCWD metric to track stress slowing growth and raising fire risk.
Researchers, including Dr. Liana Anderson of the TREES project, warn a “super El Niño” above 2 °C could intensify droughts and urge action to meet 2030 climate goals.