As per reports, Pernambuco, Brazil, has declared a state of emergency in 117 out of its 185 municipalities as of Wednesday (22 January) due to the ongoing severe drought, significantly affecting the region’s water supply, agriculture, and livelihoods.

• Governor Raquel Lyra’s decree, published on 21 January highlights the human, material, and environmental damage caused by the prolonged drought and the projected scarcity of rainfall. The state government anticipates further economic and social disruption as drought conditions persist, particularly impacting agriculture and water supply systems.
• A total of 117 municipalities in Pernambuco are now in a state of emergency due to the severe drought, with 66 of these already federally recognized for drought conditions.
• The affected areas are experiencing significant water supply shortages, particularly in regions reliant on the Pernambuco Sanitation and Supply Company (COMPESA) reservoirs.