More than 420,000 children are currently affected by the record-breaking drought and water scarcity in the Amazon region, according to a new UNICEF report.
The drought conditions in the region have been ongoing for two years. Scant rainfall and extreme heat caused by the climate crisis have left water basins at all-time low levels. The rivers have retreated so much that they can no longer be traversed by boats.
The receding rivers are now cutting off communities from access to basic supplies such as food, water, and fuel. It has also cut off their access to medical supplies, education, and child protection. Furthermore, the drought has disrupted agriculture and fishing livelihoods in the Amazon region.
"For centuries the Amazon has been home to precious natural resources. We are witnessing the devastation of an essential ecosystem that families rely on, leaving many children without access to adequate food, water, health care and schools," UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a press release.
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Who Are Most Affected by the Drought?
The drought conditions are affecting children in the Amazon region the most. At least 760 health centers are no longer accessible to children---many of whom are contracting illnesses such as dengue, fever, and malaria.
"There is no way they can reach a health center for treatment," UNICEF Manager Antonio Marro said.
Over 1,700 schools have also closed as teachers are unable to get to work due to the drop in water levels. This leaves children more vulnerable to being recruited into armed groups.
Furthermore, food insecurity caused by the drought increases children's risk of malnutrition, stunting, and death.
Why Is the Drought in the Amazon Severe?
The Amazon region's drought conditions has been caused by a number of factors, with climate change as the primary driver. A recent study from the World Weather Attribution (WWA) found that climate change increased the likelihood of the 2023 drought in Amazon by at least 30 times. Rising global temperatures have also intensified the agricultural drought.
Additionally, deforestation and mining activities have reduced the forest's capacity to recycle moisture and regulate the local climate.
