Brief
Smoke from Amazon wildfires forces school closures and mask orders in Manaus
Manaus halted in‑person work and school classes as wildfire smoke pushed pollutant levels to 196 micrograms per cubic metre.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Smoke from wildfires across Brazil's Amazonas state blanketed the capital, Manaus, on Friday, prompting municipal authorities to suspend in‑person work at administrative offices, cancel public‑school classes and advise residents to wear face masks, according to the city’s statement.
What happened
The city reported an average pollutant concentration of 196 micrograms per cubic metre, far above the normal range of 3‑9 µg/m³ and classified as unhealthy. Satellite data from state and federal sources showed clusters of fire hotspots near Manaus, in southern Amazonas, and near Santarém in the neighboring Pará state. Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research recorded about 33,556 fire hotspots in the Amazon this year, roughly 50 % higher than the same period in 2025 but still about 53 % below the historical average.
What the reports add
The Independent noted that fire hotspots have shifted southward since the dry season began in June, moving from earlier concentrations in Roraima and Amapá to the Manaus region. It also highlighted studies warning that the upcoming 2027 El Niño could intensify drought and fire risk, recalling that the 2023‑2024 El Niño raised temperatures 2‑4 °C above historic averages and fueled the Amazon’s worst wildfires in two decades.
What was said
The city’s statement warned that “the serious situation extends beyond the capital and threatens the health and quality of life of thousands of families.” Brazil’s Environment Ministry said it had deployed fire crews and aircraft, and had notified rural property owners to take preventive steps, adding that “on‑the‑ground inspections are being stepped up to curb new fires and investigate the illegal use of fire.”
How it came about
Dry conditions linked to the developing El Niño have driven the seasonal peak of fires, shifting hotspot locations further south. The Ministry’s response follows earlier warnings about drought, heat and fire preparation as the climate pattern intensifies.
Key facts
- Manaus suspended in‑person municipal office work and cancelled public‑school classes due to smoke. (independent.co.uk)
- Pollutant levels reached an average of 196 µg/m³, classified as unhealthy. (independent.co.uk)
- Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research recorded about 33,556 fire hotspots in the Amazon this year. (independent.co.uk)
- The Environment Ministry deployed fire crews, aircraft and warned rural owners to prevent fires. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Wildfires in Brazil’s Amazonas state worsen air quality in Manaus”
