AMAZONAS, BRAZIL — A fire that started on Sept. 19 in the Lago do Canaçari region, in the rural area of Itacoatiara, Amazonas, reached its 17th day on Tuesday (6) and continues to spread in some areas of the forest.

Data from the Fire Monitoring Panel, released on Monday (5), indicate that the flames have already affected more than 1,100 hectares, an area equivalent to more than 1,500 soccer fields.

The fire started in a floodplain area, crossed the Jacaré Channel and spread into stretches of dense forest, where rural properties, crops and livestock are located.

On Tuesday, 14 firefighters and six residents were working on three fronts. Teams were using hoes, fire beaters, backpack pumps and tools to create firebreaks, while volunteers helped contain the spread of the flames.

Although some areas have been brought under control, fires were still burning in scattered parts of the forest, with the flames advancing toward higher ground. Firefighters sent from Manaus reinforced the operation, and additional personnel were expected to arrive at the site.

The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Itacoatiara Municipal Department of Environment, which is working with the suspicion that it may have been deliberately started. As of publication, no one had been identified as responsible.

Amazon Agency