Wildfires have covered up to 80 percent of Brazil in smoke, leading to the reuse of face masks that were popular during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brazil, along with several other South American countries, is currently facing extreme drought and record-breaking fires, resulting in millions of hectares of forests and farmlands being consumed by flames.
The Amazon basin, usually known for its wet climate, is experiencing its worst fires in almost 20 years.
Satellite images from INPE showed that 80 percent of Brazil is affected by smoke from the fires.
Inhaling this smoke, comparable to smoking several cigarettes a day, can worsen respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma, according to experts.
Hospitals in Brazil are seeing a significant increase in patients with respiratory problems as a result of the poor air quality.
– ‘I put on my mask’ –
Residents in heavily affected areas like Brasilia are taking precautions, such as using fans and wearing masks, to protect themselves from the hazardous air.
Sao Paulo, one of the most polluted cities in the world last week, saw a spike in residents reporting health issues due to pollution.
Concerns about air quality have led to an increase in searches for air purifiers and humidifiers in Brazil.
Experts criticize the lack of air quality monitoring stations in the country and the inadequate emergency plans to tackle air pollution.
The recent fires in Brazil are largely attributed to human activities like land clearing for agriculture.
Neighboring Bolivia has also declared a national disaster due to forest fires affecting a vast area.
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