The authorities have blamed human activity for most of the country's recent fires, which are often linked to clearing land for agriculture.

The weather "is hotter this year. There is also more smoke", local resident Gomes said.

One of her daughters "has been feeling chest pains from the smoke. Before, she didn't suffer from this problem".

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced measures to tackle the effects of the drought in the Amazon during a visit to the city of Manaus on Sept 10, including dredging the Amazon and Solimoes rivers to maintain navigability, ensure supply flow and mitigate drought effects.

Agencies via Xinhua