The Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland and a biodiversity hotspot, is facing unprecedented destruction from wildfires in 2024. Blackened trees, dead animals, and scorched earth paint a grim picture, raising fears among locals about the survival of this unique ecosystem.
From January to July, wildfires in the Pantanal surged by 1,500% compared to the same period last year, according to the Institute for Space Research. Over 760,000 hectares have burned, making this the worst fire season since the catastrophic 2020 fires. The blazes have devastated habitats for jaguars, giant river otters, giant armadillos, and hyacinth macaws.
Biologist Gustavo Figueirôa from SOS Pantanal warns that the situation will only worsen. The Pantanal’s “flood pulse” ecosystem, which relies on seasonal flooding, has been disrupted by climate change and drought, turning the land into a tinderbox. Fires started unusually early this year, exacerbated by fierce winds and dry conditions.
Local residents, like Jane Silva, are struggling. Silva lost 50 animals to the fires and fears for her children’s health as smoke fills the air. Hospitals in Corumbá are overwhelmed with respiratory patients, especially young children and the elderly.
Human activities, particularly cattle ranching, are major fire sources. Ranchers’ traditional land-clearing fires now rage uncontrollably due to the drier conditions. Over 90% of the Pantanal is privately owned, and almost all 2024 fires began on private lands. The wetlands have also lost significant water area, further increasing fire risk.
Conservationists call for urgent action. Ivani Silva, another local resident, received minimal help from authorities. The government has declared an emergency and deployed the air force, but the fires persist. Experts stress the need for greater investment in fire prevention and management.
As the fires continue, the Pantanal’s future looks bleak. Lucineia Oliveira, who narrowly escaped a fire in 2021, fears for the ecosystem’s survival. “Every year is worse. We need even the smallest animals to survive. The fires are destroying the beauty of the Pantanal.”