Chile declares state of emergency amid raging forest fires

Chile battles severe forest fires, with President Boric mobilizing resources to confront the crisis in Valparaiso and Vina del Mar

Chile is facing a severe crisis as forest fires spread rapidly across its central and southern regions, including the coastal cities of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of emergency in response to the disaster, which has already claimed the lives of 10 people.

The fires have been fueled by strong winds, which helped them leap to residential areas, causing widespread destruction and necessitating emergency evacuations. In a statement on social media, President Boric emphasized the situation’s urgency, indicating that all available resources and teams have been directed to these regions to control the blaze.

The areas most affected include the towns of Concon, Quintero, and Maitencillo. Notably, the Penuelas Lake Natural Park, located about 20 kilometers (12.42 miles) from Valparaiso, has also been reported to be ablaze.

According to Senapred, Chile’s National Disaster Prevention and Response Service, the swift spread of the fire, driven by strong winds, has led to the implementation of evacuation procedures in several towns.

These fires are not unprecedented in the region. In February 2023, similar forest fires in Chile resulted in 13 fatalities. The current situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the country in dealing with natural disasters, particularly those exacerbated by extreme weather.

The government’s response to this emergency is being closely monitored as the nation rallies to mitigate the impact of these devastating fires and prevent further loss of life.

Source: Newsroom