Wildfires in Chile’s Biobío and Ñuble regions have killed at least 18, destroyed homes and forced mass evacuations under a declared state of catastrophe.
SANTIAGO: Massive wildfires sweeping across central and southern Chile have left at least 18 people dead, destroyed hundreds of homes and forced thousands to flee, as President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in the Biobío and Ñuble regions.
The fires, which have consumed more than 8,500 hectares, are being fuelled by extreme heat and strong winds. Temperatures in the hardest-hit areas have soared above 38 degrees Celsius, creating tinderbox conditions that have overwhelmed firefighting efforts.
Authorities have confirmed that more than 50,000 residents have been evacuated, with multiple towns and rural communities facing critical danger. The blaze has already destroyed homes and infrastructure in and around cities such as Concepción, Penco and Lirquén.
Declaring a state of catastrophe allows the government to mobilise additional resources and take emergency measures to protect affected areas. Curfews have been imposed in some regions to prevent looting and ensure the safety of evacuation operations.
Firefighters, military units and emergency workers are battling dozens of active fires as shifting wind conditions complicate containment efforts. Shelters have been opened for displaced families, and aid is being coordinated at the national level.
President Boric has called on international partners for support and pledged to provide all necessary assistance to communities devastated by the blazes. Officials fear the death toll may rise as assessment teams reach more remote areas.
With dry conditions expected to persist in the coming days, Chile’s government continues to urge residents to follow safety advisories, stay indoors where possible and report any new fire outbreaks.
