Daily Current Affairs : 21-October-2023
The Amazon rainforest, often called the Earth’s lungs, is a vast tropical expanse covering 7 million square kilometers across nine South American countries. This dense forest is not only home to diverse wildlife but also plays a crucial role in stabilizing our planet’s climate.
The Unprecedented Drought: A Grim Reality
Between July and September 2023, eight Brazilian states faced an unparalleled drought, experiencing the lowest rainfall in over 40 years. This prolonged dry spell has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the indigenous communities but also the entire ecosystem of the Amazon.
Ramifications of the Prolonged Drought: A Disturbing Impact
- Dwindling Rivers: Major rivers like Rio Negro and Madeira have hit record-low levels, hampering travel and daily life.
- Impact on Hydroelectric Dams: Santo Antonio, a significant hydroelectric dam, suspended operations due to historically low water levels in the Madeira River.
- Loss of Aquatic Life: The drought has led to the death of numerous fish and river dolphins, contaminating water sources for local communities.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Approximately 500,000 individuals face water scarcity, with Manaus declaring states of emergency in most municipalities.
Understanding the Causes: El Nino and Atlantic Ocean Temperatures
- Historical Precedence: While droughts in the Amazon are not new, simultaneous disruptions in cloud formation due to El Nino and elevated Atlantic Ocean temperatures worsen the situation.
- Influence of El Nino: Abnormal warming of the equatorial Pacific Ocean affects global weather patterns, leading to extreme heat events and reduced rainfall in the Amazon.
- Atlantic Ocean Impact: High temperatures in the northern tropical Atlantic Ocean hinder cloud formation, causing a significant reduction in rainfall, exacerbating the drought.
Alarming Research Findings: A Bleak Future for the Amazon
- Predictions for 2060: Research suggests that with current fossil fuel consumption rates, the Amazon could face major droughts in 90% of years by 2060, potentially transitioning into a savanna.
- Diminishing Resilience: Studies indicate that the Amazon’s ability to recover from prolonged droughts is decreasing, posing a significant threat to its survival.
- Call for Urgent Action: To safeguard the Amazon, experts emphasize the urgent need to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Reforestation efforts are also critical in restoring degraded areas and preserving this vital ecosystem.
Important Points:
The Amazon rainforest, often called the Earth’s lungs, is a vast tropical expanse covering 7 million square kilometers across nine South American countries. This dense forest is not only home to diverse wildlife but also plays a crucial role in stabilizing our planet’s climate.
The Unprecedented Drought: A Grim Reality
Between July and September 2023, eight Brazilian states faced an unparalleled drought, experiencing the lowest rainfall in over 40 years. This prolonged dry spell has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the indigenous communities but also the entire ecosystem of the Amazon.
Ramifications of the Prolonged Drought: A Disturbing Impact
- Dwindling Rivers: Major rivers like Rio Negro and Madeira have hit record-low levels, hampering travel and daily life.
- Impact on Hydroelectric Dams: Santo Antonio, a significant hydroelectric dam, suspended operations due to historically low water levels in the Madeira River.
- Loss of Aquatic Life: The drought has led to the death of numerous fish and river dolphins, contaminating water sources for local communities.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Approximately 500,000 individuals face water scarcity, with Manaus declaring states of emergency in most municipalities.
Understanding the Causes: El Nino and Atlantic Ocean Temperatures
- Historical Precedence: While droughts in the Amazon are not new, simultaneous disruptions in cloud formation due to El Nino and elevated Atlantic Ocean temperatures worsen the situation.
- Influence of El Nino: Abnormal warming of the equatorial Pacific Ocean affects global weather patterns, leading to extreme heat events and reduced rainfall in the Amazon.
- Atlantic Ocean Impact: High temperatures in the northern tropical Atlantic Ocean hinder cloud formation, causing a significant reduction in rainfall, exacerbating the drought.
Alarming Research Findings: A Bleak Future for the Amazon
- Predictions for 2060: Research suggests that with current fossil fuel consumption rates, the Amazon could face major droughts in 90% of years by 2060, potentially transitioning into a savanna.
- Diminishing Resilience: Studies indicate that the Amazon’s ability to recover from prolonged droughts is decreasing, posing a significant threat to its survival.
- Call for Urgent Action: To safeguard the Amazon, experts emphasize the urgent need to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Reforestation efforts are also critical in restoring degraded areas and preserving this vital ecosystem.
Why In News
The Amazon rainforest is reeling from an intense drought, leaving numerous rivers vital for travel dried up. As a consequence, indigenous communities in the area are facing a dire situation with no access to water, food, or medicine, making their survival even more precarious. Urgent intervention and support are needed to alleviate their suffering and protect this invaluable ecosystem.
MCQs about Amazon Under Threat:Unprecedented Drought Imperils Rainforest
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What is the primary cause of the unprecedented drought in the Amazon rainforest?
A. El Nino and Elevated Atlantic Ocean Temperatures
B. Excessive Deforestation
C. Overpopulation of Indigenous Communities
D. Industrial Pollution
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Which major river in the Amazon region hit a record-low level during the drought period, impacting travel and daily life?
A. Amazon River
B. Rio Negro
C. Madeira River
D. Orinoco River
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What is the potential consequence if the Amazon reaches the predicted tipping point?
A. Increased Biodiversity
B. Transition into a Drier Savanna
C. Enhanced Carbon Sequestration
D. Expansion of Rainforest Area
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What urgent action is emphasized in the essay to safeguard the Amazon rainforest?
A. Increase Industrial Activities
B. Expand Deforestation Efforts
C. Reduce Deforestation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
D. Ignore Climate Change Concerns
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