Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Hot on Facebook
God Doesn't Want Teachers to Get Raises, Says Lawmaker It should be a calling, adds Alabama official »

Amazon River at 40-Year Low

Dry weather cuts off Peruvian towns

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Sep 3, 2010 3:00 AM CDT

(Newser) – Remote parts of Peru have been left high and dry by a dramatic drop in the Amazon river, dealing a devastating blow to local economies. The river is at its lowest level in at least 40 years in the northeastern part of the country because of a prolonged dry spell, the BBC reports. Several large boats have been stranded near the city of Iquitos, which relies on the river for transportation to the rest of the country. Food and other supplies are being brought in by smaller boats that can navigate the shallow river, doubling the length of journeys that usually take 12 to 15 days.

The low river level has caused economic havoc in parts of Peru without road links to the rest of the country.
The low river level has caused economic havoc in parts of Peru without road links to the rest of the country.   (?markg6)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
My TakeCLICK BELOW TO VOTE
4%
23%
58%
0%
15%
0%
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 4 comments
amylynnc
Sep 3, 2010 11:29 PM CDT
The river is typically at its low point this time of year but it was lower than normal back in mid July with boats unable to pick up and discharge people and cargo at their typical locations. In this area, the rivers are the only roads. For those interested in learning more about everyday indigenous life in the Peruvian Amazon, please visit www.ninosdelaamazonia.org You will see amazing photos, all of them taken by the children who live there. It is a unique, intimate perspective and a true document of their realities. Thank you.
sailor86
Sep 3, 2010 6:04 AM CDT
Them warrior women are being put to the test.
finkster
Sep 3, 2010 3:52 AM CDT
The oceans are rising while the rivers are shrinking.
 

More Newser Stories

Peru Struggles to Shield New 'Lost' Tribe

Docs to Remove Twin From Tot's Stomach

6.3 Quake Shakes Peru

Fire Kills 26 in Peru Drug Rehab Center

Cops Arrest Suspected Butt Slasher


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne