The government called for conservation ahead of a possible drought as regions already endure power cuts of up to ten hours and intermittent water. Experts warn the climate phenomenon would be an aggravating factor, not the cause of a grid weakened by years of underinvestment and delayed maintenance.
Brazil's Fire Bulletin records about 2 million hectares burned in 2026, compared with more than 3 million in the historical average for the same period. The Caatinga is 8% above its average, while a possible strong El Niño keeps risks elevated.
The World Meteorological Organization expects warming in the central and eastern Pacific to develop into a strong event during August-October 2026. Its overlap with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole may shift rainfall and raise heat, drought, flood and wildfire risks.