Brazil launches 'war' on wildfires devastating Sao Paulo
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240826-brazil-waging-war-on-wildfires-in-crowded-sao-paulo-state
Brazil launches 'war' on wildfires devastating Sao Paulo state
Brazil has deployed military aircraft to combat raging wildfires in the densely populated state of Sao Paulo, where authorities suspect arsonists are responsible for the blazes. Following a crisis meeting, President Lula da Silva and Environment Minister Marina Silva announced Sunday a "war against the fire" as emergency measures were put in place and federal police began investigations into the "atypical situation".
Issued on: 26/08/2024 - 03:07
Modified: 26/08/2024 - 06:59
3 min
By: NEWS WIRES
Brazil was deploying military aircraft as part of a "war" against wildfires ravaging the southeastern state of Sao Paulo, with authorities warning on Sunday that arsonists were setting blazes.
Following a crisis meeting of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's cabinet, Environment Minister Marina Silva announced a "war against the fire" and said federal police were investigating the "atypical situation" that has caused extensive damage.
"So far we have not detected any fire caused by lightning, which means there are people starting fires," Lula said in a video that he posted on X after meeting with Silva.
Tarcisio de Freitas, the governor of Sao Paulo, by far the country's most populous state with some 44 million residents, decreed a state of emergency in 45 municipalities and said two people suspected of starting fires had been arrested.
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