Deforestation crisis: Amazon's impact on extreme weather
Deforestation of the Amazon leads to worsening droughts and floods. Experts emphasise that the role of the rainforest changes depending on the season.
Excessive tree cutting in the Amazon rainforest exacerbates both droughts and floods. Research published in the scientific journal "Nature" indicates that the loss of forest cover alters weather patterns in the region, leading to extreme weather events.
The Amazon rainforest, crucial for the global ecosystem, is threatened by mass deforestation for agricultural purposes.
As a result, the region is experiencing more frequent natural disasters, such as droughts and floods. Analysis of satellite data from 2000-2020 shows that deforested areas experience altered weather patterns.
Research conducted by scientists from China and Taiwan indicates that during the rainy season, from December to February, deforested areas receive more rain than forested ones. However, during the dry season, from June to August, rainfall is reduced. These phenomena result from differences in land heating and water evaporation.
Impacts on agriculture and economy
Increased rainfall during the rainy season can lead to flooding, negatively affecting agriculture and the region's economy. Further deforestation may reduce overall rainfall, threatening biodiversity and food security.
According to the RAISG organisation, approximately 54 million hectares of rainforest were destroyed between 2001-2020, accounting for 8.7% of the entire ecosystem. These alarming figures highlight the need to protect this crucial area.
