In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Guatemala’s firefighters are grappling with an alarming increase in forest fires. The nationwide curfew, imposed to curb the spread of the virus, has inadvertently intensified the problem by limiting the number of volunteers and community support staff available to combat the flames.
Firefighters Roger Agustin and Eddy Mansill have expressed deep concern over the situation. The reduced manpower has led to challenges in controlling the fires, resulting in severe damage to the local ecosystem. The curfew restrictions mean that fewer people are able to assist in early detection and rapid response, key factors in managing forest fires effectively.
The escalating forest fires not only threaten Guatemala’s rich biodiversity but also pose health risks to communities already vulnerable due to the pandemic. The combination of smoke pollution and COVID-19 could exacerbate respiratory issues among the population.
As the dry season progresses, there is an urgent need for strategies that balance public health measures with environmental protection. Collaborative efforts between authorities and communities are essential to address this dual crisis.
Reference(s):
Guatemala firefighters battle increased forest fires amid COVID-19
cgtn.com
