According to a report in leading newspaper O Globo, the Bananal fire probably started on a ranch in the state of Mata Grosso, where there were over 200 farming fires by the first week of August that were big enough to spot by satellite. High winds were spreading the fire rapidly toward a major wildlife reserve, the Araguaia National Park, and making it difficult to control, officials at Brazil's environment agency Ibama said. Ibama sent in a team of 15 fire prevention experts on Monday and is sending a second group on Tuesday. They will assess the path and pattern of the fire and coordinate firefighting efforts, a spokesman in Brasilia said. The southern part of Bananal is a reservation for Karaja Indians who are worried about the fire and smoke, O Globo said, quoting one of the residents.
People spend the whole time worrying about the fire.
Firefighters said they were hampered because strong winds made it extremely dangerous to fight the flames, so they were clearing firebreaks during the day and attacking the fire at night. It's an exhausting and unpleasant job. Recipients should seek permission to reprint the article from the source listed above. Reading on line, downloading or other use of this information signifies acceptance of these conditions, and the Full Disclaimer.