21 Nov 2018 | 08:53 PM UTC
Chile: Favorable fire conditions in central Chile Nov. 21-28 /update 1
Chilean fire authorities warn of favorable wildfire conditions from Atacama to O’Higgins until November 28
Event
Chile's fire authority Corporación Nacional Forestal (Conaf) is warning of favorable fire conditions in five regions across central Chile (Atacama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Región Metropolitana [Santiago region], and Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins) until Wednesday, November 28. High temperatures, low humidity, and ample dry vegetation are contributing to fears of large wildfires in the country as it enters its summer months. The government is advising citizens to not light fires and warning that causing a wildfire may result in imprisonment.
Context
Forest fires are common in Chile during the summer months. The country was devastated by a string of major forest fires in January 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 11 people, as well as the destruction of around 1500 houses and over 580,000 hectares (1.4 million acres).
Advice
Individuals in the Chile, particularly in the abovementioned regions, are advised to adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. fire bans, evacuation notices), keep abreast of the situation and of local weather reports, and establish safety plans in case of an evacuation notice.
