Lake Tefé Loses 75% of Its Area

The extreme drought that affected Lake Tefe, in the middle Solimoes River, in 2024 reduced its area by 75%, compromising the habitat of Amazon river dolphins. The phenomenon, linked to climate change, resulted in water temperatures reaching up to 41C, with daily variations of up to 13.3C. In 2023, more than 200 pink river dolphins and tucuxis died due to overheated waters and the lack of refuge in deeper, cooler areas. A study published in Science, signed by 42 scientists, details the impacts of the drought on the local ecosystem. The survey found that, between 1990 and 2023, Amazon lakes warmed by an average of 0.6C per decade, with peaks of 0.8C in some areas. The study also highlights damage to fishing and transportation in the region, both essential for local subsistence. Although more severe, the drought of 2024 did not result in new animal deaths. COP30, the UN climate conference, is attemptingthrough diplomatic meetings in Belemto secure agreements to curb and mitigate the effects of climate change. The conference will be held from November 10 to 21.