Amazon deforestation raises surface temperature by 3°C during dry season, satellite data show

Amazon deforestation weakens the rainforest’s ability to create its own rain

Deforestation in the Amazon is making the region hotter and drier, with less rainfall as the forest loses its ability to recycle moisture.

Amazon deforestation raises surface temperature by 3°C during dry season, satellite data show

Deforestation in the Amazon is causing significant regional changes in climate compared to areas with forest cover above 80%. The loss of vegetation leads to an increase in surface temperature, a decrease in evapotranspiration, and a reduction in precipitation during the dry season and in the number of rainy days.

Amazon deforestation drives hotter drier regional climate

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 16, 2026 Deforestation in the Amazon is reshaping regional climate conditions when compared with areas that retain more than 80 percent forest cover. Using satellite observations, researchers show that the loss of vegetation leads to higher surface temperatures, reduced evapotranspiration, and a sharp decline in both total precipitation and the number of rainy days during the dry season. The