Chile wildfires kill at least 18, prompt state of catastrophe declaration
Devastating wildfires in central Chile have claimed at least 18 lives, with President Gabriel Boric warning the death toll is likely to rise. A state of catastrophe has been declared in the Biobío and Ñuble regions, where over 1,000 homes are estimated to be destroyed and dozens of fires rage.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on Sunday that at least 18 people have died in severe wildfires tearing through central regions of the country. The president warned the fatalities are expected to increase as emergency teams battle dozens of active blazes that have destroyed hundreds of homes and prompted a major government response.
State of Catastrophe and Curfews Imposed
President Boric declared a state of catastrophe for the Biobío and Ñuble regions, a measure enacted to facilitate logistics, security, and fire containment efforts. Authorities have also imposed overnight curfews in several affected towns, including Lirquén, Penco, Nacimiento, and Laja, to ensure public safety and allow unimpeded emergency operations. "We have a confirmed number today of 18 deceased persons, but we have the certainty, unfortunately, that this number will increase," Boric told reporters.
Scale of the Destruction and Firefighting Efforts
As of Sunday evening, Chile's National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) was combating 33 separate forest fires. The towns of Laja, Ránquil, Florida, Santa Juana, Quillón, and Nacimiento were among the areas with active flames. While 300 homes have been officially confirmed destroyed in Biobío alone, President Boric estimated the final tally across both regions would likely surpass 1,000 residences. He urged residents to comply swiftly with evacuation orders, highlighting the rapid spread of the Penco-Lirquén fire.
International Response and Context
The disaster has drawn international attention, with the U.S. Ambassador to Chile stating that former President Donald Trump authorized offers of assistance to combat the wildfires. The fires represent a severe blow to central Chile, a region periodically afflicted by intense wildfire seasons often exacerbated by drought and high temperatures, posing ongoing challenges for national disaster management.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.