Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe this week as wildfires ravaging the Bio-Bio and Nuble regions have killed at least 18 people and displaced tens of thousands. Authorities warn the death toll may rise further as emergency teams battle 24 active blazes.
Escalating Crisis in Central-South Chile
President Boric authorized full mobilization of resources to combat the fires, which remain uncontained across multiple areas. The largest inferno, near Ranquil in Nuble, has already burned over 2,200 hectares. In Penco (Bio-Bio), 30,000 residents fled advancing flames, with property damage assessments still ongoing.
Alicia Sefrian of Chile's National Disaster Prevention Service emphasized the urgency of evacuation efforts, stating: 'Our priority is saving lives while containing this ecological and humanitarian disaster.'
Regional Impact and Global Context
The catastrophe highlights growing climate challenges in South America, with scientists noting increased wildfire risks during Southern Hemisphere summers. This disaster follows similar patterns seen in Australia and California in recent years, underscoring the need for international disaster response strategies.
