Brazil wildfires: Blaze advances across Pantanal wetlands

Image source, AFP / Mato Grosso do Sul State Government

Image caption, The wetlands are one of the most biodiverse regions in the world

A 50 kilometre-long (31 mile) wildfire is advancing across Brazil's Pantanal wetlands.

The governor's office in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul said the fire was "bigger than anything seen before" in the region.

At least 50,000 hectares of vegetation have already been destroyed.

The area, located in the southern part of the country, is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world and a popular tourist destination.

The fire began on 25 October and is said to be advancing rapidly .

The governor's office said in a statement that the situation was "critical". It also warned that visibility in the area is poor.

The governor has announced a 30-day moratorium on using fire for land clearance.

Firefighters are also using planes to tackle the fire from above.

Image source, AFP / Mato Grosso do Sul State Government

Image caption, Over 8,000 fires have been recorded in the Pantanal

Image source, AFP / Mato Grosso do Sul State Government

Image caption, At least 50,000 hectares of vegetation has already been destroyed

Over 8,000 fires have been recorded in the Pantanal until 30 October, up 462% on the same period last year.

Brazil has had a large number of forest fires this year. Official figures show more than 167,000 forest fires were recorded from January until 30 October this year.

Video caption, Watch volunteer firefighters battling to save Brazil's Amazon rainforest