19 Feb 2022 | 03:01 AM UTC
Chile: Authorities responding to structure fire in San Fernando late Feb. 18
Authorities responding to structure fire in San Fernando, Chile, late Feb. 18. Heightened security and localized disruptions likely.
Event
Authorities are responding to a structure fire in the Maderas Salimero area of San Fernando as of late Feb. 18. According to officials, over 200 firefighters and emergency personnel from the region are working to put out the blaze that started in a wooden warehouse. Authorities have evacuated at least 150 people from the area as a precaution. The cause of the blaze is not immediately clear.
Heightened security, as well as localized business and transport disruptions, are likely in the coming hours. Lingering disruptions are possible after crews extinguish the blaze as recovery operations and investigations continue.
San Fernando is located 130 km (81 miles) south of Santiago.
Advice
Avoid the area until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Consider remaining indoors if there is still heavy smoke, especially if suffering from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk of smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
