Emerald green Pinheiros River emerges in Sao Paulo amid drought

In recent days, the Pinheiros River in Sao Paulo has taken on an unusual emerald green color due to an algae bloom, a phenomenon linked to the severe drought affecting Brazil. This drought is the worst the country has faced in over seventy years, with 59% of the nation experiencing significant water stress. The algae bloom is a direct result of drastically lowered water levels in the river, which has raised concerns among residents about the river's health and the surrounding environment. Simultaneously, Sao Paulo has been grappling with poor air quality, exacerbated by smoke from wildfires in forested areas. The combination of a hot, dry mass and ongoing wildfires has led to smoke-filled skies, causing the city to experience some of the worst air pollution globally. On certain days, Sao Paulo's air quality ranked second only to that of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, prompting health warnings from local environmental authorities. Residents have reported a putrid smell near the river, particularly noticeable at night when temperatures drop. This has led to complaints about the impact on their health and daily activities, with many avoiding outdoor exercise and keeping windows closed. The situation has drawn attention from local celebrities, who have expressed their alarm over the deteriorating air quality and visibility in the city. The environmental crisis in Sao Paulo highlights the broader issues of climate change and human impact on natural ecosystems. As the drought continues and wildfires rage, the health of both the Pinheiros River and the air quality in the city remain in jeopardy, raising urgent questions about environmental management and public health in urban areas.