New data from NASA’s Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) instrument recently maps the movement high in the climate of carbon monoxide related to flames in the Amazon region of Brazil.
The instrument maps carbon monoxide at an altitude of 18,000 feet (5,500 meters) from Aug. 8-22, 2019. As the series progresses, the map showing that the plumes also growing in the northwest Amazon region and then drifts in a more concentrated plume toward the southeastern part of the nation.
In the map, Green indicates concentrations of carbon monoxide at approximately 100 parts per billion by volume (ppbv); Yellow, at about 120 ppbv; and Dark red, at about 160 ppbv. Local values can be significantly higher.
The Amazon forest, which produces about 20% of earth’s oxygen, is often referred to as ‘the planet’s lungs.’
The Amazon fire has become a global issue, raising tensions among Brazil and European nations. Fires are frequent in Brazil in the annual dry season. However, they are substantially more widespread this year. Brazilian state specialists reported about 77,000 wildfires across the nation over so far this year, up 85% over a similar period in 2018.