05 Mar 2020 | 06:18 AM UTC
Chile: Red alert issued in Galvarino and Traiguén due to ongoing forest fires March 4 /update 1
Chilean municipalities of Galvarino, Traiguén, Curicó, and Molina under red alert due to ongoing forest fires as of March 4; avoid the area
Event
Active forest fires in Chile has prompted the National Emergency Office (ONEMI) to issue a red alert (highest level) in Galvarino and Traiguén municipalities on Wednesday, March 4. Meanwhile, Curicó and Molina municipalities in the Maule region are also remain under red alert due to ongoing forest fires in the area.
The fires have affected at least 12,300 hectares (30,394 acres) of land as of March 4 and authorities have dispatched 36 fire brigades and 31 aircraft to combat the blazes.
Further spread of fires is possible over the coming days. A heightened security presence, road closures, and power outages are to be expected in the vicinity of any forest fires.
Advice
Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
