Post by : Badri Ariffin

Santiago, Chile:

In response to severe wildfires wreaking havoc in the southern regions of Ñuble and Bío Bío, Chilean President Gabriel Boric has proclaimed a state of catastrophe. The flames have tragically taken the lives of at least 18 individuals, compelling the evacuation of nearly 20,000 residents.

Chile's forestry agency, CONAF, reports that firefighters are grappling with 24 active infernos across the nation, with the most significant fires concentrated in Ñuble and Bío Bío, located approximately 500 km south of the capital, Santiago.

“Given the severe wildfires continuing to impact our communities, I have chosen to declare a state of catastrophe in the regions of Ñuble and Bío Bío. We are mobilizing all available resources,” President Boric announced on X.

Thus far, about 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) have been scorched, with over 250 residences lost to the flames. Evacuation directives remain active for numerous localities.

Challenging weather conditions, including high winds and extreme temperatures, have hampered firefighting efforts. Parts of Chile, from Santiago to Bío Bío, are bracing for temperatures soaring as high as 38°C (100°F).

These wildfires erupt in the wake of serious heat waves that have afflicted both Chile and Argentina, with prior fires previously wreaking havoc in locations throughout Patagonia earlier this month.

#Global News