Chile declares emergency: 18 dead, over 20,000 displaced in massive forest fire

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) – A massive forest fire in southern Chile has shaken the entire country. As of Sunday, at least 18 people have been confirmed dead, while the situation remains critical. Strong winds and extreme heat are causing the fire to spread rapidly, making it challenging to control.

Given the severity of the situation, Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of disaster in the Nuevo Leon and Biobío regions. He stated that all necessary resources have been deployed to combat the fires, and rescue and relief efforts are continuing at full strength.

More than 8,500 hectares burned to ashes

According to Chile's national forest agency, CONAF, 24 active forest fires had been recorded across the country as of Sunday morning, with the most dangerous fires raging in the Nuevo and Biobío regions, located about 500 kilometers south of the capital, Santiago. So far, about 8,500 hectares (about 21,000 acres) of land in these areas have been completely destroyed.

More than 20 thousand people displaced

The magnitude of the fire can be gauged from the fact that till now more than 20,000 people have been evacuated to safer places. Some reports put the number of displaced people at up to 50,000. According to the disaster management agency Senapred, at least 250 houses have been completely burnt to ashes. In many areas, people were seen trying to save their homes, farms and domestic animals. Local administration and relief agencies are engaged in evacuating the affected people.

President Boric confirmed the death

toll in the evening after a meeting with mayors and officials, saying it could rise further as many people were still missing.

Strong winds and heat have added to the woes

The weather service has warned that temperatures from Santiago to Biobío could reach 38 degrees Celsius. Strong winds and intense heat have fueled the fires. A thick layer of smoke has enveloped many areas, severely reducing visibility. Firefighters are working day and night to extinguish the blaze.