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Emergency declared in two Chilean regions
President Gabriel Boric has imposed a state of catastrophe in Ñuble and Biobío after wildfires claimed at least 18 lives and forced more than 50,000 people to evacuate, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
Firefighters battle 24 blazes nationwide
Chile's forestry agency, Conaf, reported that crews are currently tackling 24 active wildfires across the country. The most severe fires are concentrated in the southern regions of Ñuble and Biobío, approximately 500 kilometers south of Santiago.
In these two regions alone, flames have scorched 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) of land, according to disaster officials.
Coastal city of Concepción hardest hit
The most destructive fire has raged through parched forests near Concepción, a coastal city in Biobío. Local reports indicate that at least 250 homes have been destroyed, with images circulating of burned-out vehicles lining the streets.
The majority of evacuations occurred in the nearby cities of Penco and Lirquen, which together are home to around 60,000 residents.
Extreme weather fuels crisis
Strong winds and soaring temperatures have intensified the fires, complicating efforts to contain the blazes. Much of Chile remains under heat alerts, with forecasts predicting temperatures up to 38°C (100°F) between Santiago and Biobío in the coming days.
President Boric warned that the death toll is likely to rise, stating in a social media post, "All resources are available." The state of catastrophe allows the deployment of the armed forces to assist in relief operations.
Chile's history of deadly wildfires
The current crisis echoes previous disasters, including the 2022 wildfires in the Valparaíso region near Santiago, which killed at least 120 people. Experts link the increasing frequency and severity of fires to prolonged drought conditions.
