Chile: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Los Lagos, O'Higgins, and Nuble regions early Dec. 27

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Los Lagos, O'Higgins, and Nuble regions in late December. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fires; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is likely. As of early Dec. 27, the following large wildfires continue to cause evacuations and transport disruptions:

Acid Highway Fire
The Acid Highway Fire is currently affecting Requioa and Machali communes in the O'Higgins Region and is approximately 922 hectares (2,278 acres) in size. The fire has been burning since Dec. 24. At least 10 brigades are on-site battling the blaze. The fire has destroyed one uninhabited house. The fire has injured two fire-fighting personnel. Four families from the Quebrada El Barro sector have been evacuated to the Machali Municipal Gym.

Rosary Fire
The Rosary Fire is currently affecting Quillon Commune in the Nuble Region and is approximately 1,600 hectares (3,953 acres) in size. The fire has been burning since Dec. 25. Nine brigades are on-site battling the blaze. The Santa Ana del Baul, El Olivar, La Esmeralda, and Vega del Sauzal sectors have been evacuated.

Almond Tree 2 Fire
The Almond Tree 2 Fire is currently affecting Los Sauces and Angol communes in the Araucania Region and is approximately 9,000 hectares (22,239 acres) in size. The fire has been burning since Dec. 23. Nine brigades are on-site battling the blaze. The fire has destroyed three homes. The fire has injured two personnel. Seven people have been evacuated from Lolenco, Chacaico, and El Parque sectors, Angol Commune and Tronicura Sector, Los Sauces Commune.

La Vara Fire
The La Vara Fire is currently affecting Puerto Montt Commune in the Los Lagos Region and is approximately 14 hectares (35 acres) in size. The fire has been burning since Dec. 25. Three brigades are on-site battling the blaze.

The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) is maintaining red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alerts for Requioa and Machali communes in the O'Higgins Region, Quillon Commune in the Nuble Region, Los Sauces and Angol communes in the Araucania Region, and Puerto Montt Commune in the Los Lagos Region due to the wildfires.

Emergency responders may implement road closures at short notice depending on evolving wildfire conditions and operational needs. Smoke from the fire could cause poor air quality in the affected area. Authorities may introduce mandatory evacuation orders at short notice. The fire could also lead to power supply disruptions.

Advice

Heed any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Resources

Bomberos de Chile Facebook
National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI)
National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) Twitter