Wildfires in Brazil

Wildfires in Brazil's southern Sao Paulo state have resulted in at least two fatalities and have placed 36 cities on high alert. The fires, fueled by a severe heatwave and prolonged drought, have prompted a significant response, with approximately 7,300 government workers and volunteers deployed to combat the flames. Governor Tarcísio de Freitas warned that strong winds could exacerbate the situation, making it increasingly challenging to contain the fires. Although the city of Sao Paulo has largely remained unaffected, surrounding rural areas are engulfed in smoke and flames. The region is experiencing its worst wildfire season in decades, with nearly 5,000 fires reported this year alone. The fatalities occurred in the city of Urupês, where two industrial workers died while attempting to fight the blaze.