State of Emergency Declared in Chile, 20,000 Residents Relocated to Safe Areas

The Chilean government has declared a state of emergency in the southern regions of Ñuble and Biobío as raging wildfires continue to threaten communities and the environment. President Gabriel Boric announced the emergency measures as firefighters and emergency services work tirelessly to contain the blazes.

According to a report by Arab News on Sunday, nearly 20,000 residents have been evacuated from affected areas as the fires spread rapidly. In a message shared on the social media platform X, President Boric stated:

“In light of the ongoing severe wildfires, I have decided to declare a state of natural disaster in the Ñuble and Biobío regions. All necessary resources and preparations are in place to combat the fires.”

Scope of the Wildfires

The wildfires are currently affecting 19 locations across Chile, with 12 of these concentrated in Ñuble and Biobío, situated south of the capital, Santiago. Firefighting units are making all possible efforts to bring the flames under control, although authorities have yet to confirm any fatalities or detailed figures regarding damaged properties.

Alicia Sebrian, Director of Chile’s National Disaster Prevention and Response Agency, told local media that the evacuations have primarily taken place in the cities of Penco and Lirquén, which together have a population of approximately 60,000.

Impact and Visuals

Local television broadcasts have shown smouldering streets, burnt-out vehicles, and smoke-filled skies in both Penco and Lirquén, highlighting the intensity of the fires.

Chile has faced increasingly severe wildfires in recent years, particularly in the central and southern regions. In February 2024, multiple fires near Viña del Mar, northwest of Santiago, resulted in 138 deaths and affected approximately 16,000 residents, according to official government reports.

Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders promptly, as fire conditions remain unpredictable due to high winds and dry weather. Emergency services have been deployed nationwide to provide support, and aerial firefighting operations are ongoing.