EQ2- rio de janerio drought

where

Rio de Janeiro, Southeast Brazil

why was the drought significant

it was the worst in 80 years

what is rainfall usually like in Brazil

Usually, moist air from the South Atlantic encounters the Andes mountain range. This forces its southward, creating a flow of moisture around the basin.

what changed in the pressure system to cause drougth

In 2014-2015, high pressure systems diverted moist air further North, causing heavy rains in Bolivia and Paraguay but dry air over Brazil.

what were the human impacts

• 4 million had to ration water

• Brazil relies heavily on HEP for its power, so the drought caused power cuts.

economic impacts

•  In Brazil, there are high fees to drill wells. This has led to a vast number of illegal wells. Infact, 70% of wells are illegal. Illegal wells are shallower and polluted

• . • The Arabica Coffee bean crop reduced, which drove global coffee prices up 50%. • By 2015, main reservoirs had reached 5% of their capacity.

environmental impacts

Rainforests recycle ½ of their rainfall, so deforestation could trigger a positive feedback loop causing further drought.

what is the problem with a drying forest

A drying forest means reduced soil water storage and evapotranspiration. It also means that uncontrolled wildfires are much more likely to occur.