Rio on fire

 

Photo via Global Voices

Rio de Janeiro is a city known for its spirited festivities and all-night celebrations, but part of those revelries are being blamed for inadvertently setting a blaze on one of the city's hillside national parks over the weekend, which added an ominous glow to Rio's iconic natural skyline. Fortunately for residents, many of whom make their homes perched along city's forested peaks, the fire's destruction was limited to just 10 acres of vegetation, though the park was rich in wildlife. Firefighters suspect the blaze was caused after a fire-laden balloon was released into the sky by partygoers--a practice considered an environmental crime that carries with it a heavy fine and jail time.

Article continues: Balloon Blamed For Setting Rio de Janeiro on Fire