Brazil Deploys Military Planes to Combat Wildfires

Brazil has launched a 'war' on wildfires in the southeastern state of Sao Paulo, deploying military aircraft to combat the flames that have led to a state of emergency in 45 municipalities. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Environment Minister Marina Silva held a crisis meeting, revealing that investigations into suspected arson are underway as no lightning-caused fires have been detected. Tragically, two factory workers died while battling the blazes, which have also disrupted transport and closed schools due to the thick smoke. The military's KC-390 aircraft, capable of dropping significant amounts of water, was dispatched but faced operational challenges due to visibility issues from smoke. The wildfires have created health hazards, prompting warnings about respiratory problems from the toxic smoke. As the fires continue to rage, federal assistance is being mobilized to support local firefighting efforts.