Flying Rivers and Protected Areas: The Role of the Amazon Rainforest in South American Rainfall

The Amazone rainforests play a central role in South America’s water cycle by recycling moisture through “Flying Rivers,” which sustain rainfall across the continent. Protected areas, Indigenous Territories, and other conserved forests are key to maintaining this system, generating vast volumes of atmospheric moisture that support water, food, and energy security. However, deforestation, degradation, and climate change are weakening this function, increasing the risk of droughts and ecological instability. As rainfall patterns become more uncertain, safeguarding these forests and strengthening regional cooperation are essential to preserve climate regulation and ensure long-term resilience across interconnected countries.