Chile: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Magallanes, Maule, and Nuble regions Feb. 8

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Magallanes, Maule, and Nuble regions as of Feb. 8. The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) has issued alerts for the following wildfires:

Santa Cruz and Curimaqui 2 Fires
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert is in place for the Santa Cruz and Curimaqui 2 fires in Cauquenes Commune, Cauquenes Province, Maule Region from Feb. 8. The Santa Cruz Fire is located in the Cauquenes District and has consumed approximately 300 hectares (740 acres) of vegetation, while the Curimaqui 2 Fire in the Cauquenes Commune has destroyed approximately 250 hectares (618 acres) of vegetation. The Curimaqui 2 Fire is burning close to inhabited areas and power lines.

El Boldo Fire
Authorities declared a red alert for the El Boldo Fire in El Carmen Commune, Diguillin Province, Nuble Region, Feb. 8, which has consumed 4 hectares (10 acres) of vegetation. The fire is spreading rapidly and burning close to inhabited areas.

Rinconada de Perquenco Fire
A red alert is being maintained for Rinconada de Perquenco Fire in Perquenco Commune in Cautin Province, Araucania Region Feb. 8, which has consumed 5 hectares (12 acres) of vegetation. The fire is spreading northeast rapidly and is threatening homes and other structures.

Forestal Russfin Fire
A red alert is being maintained for the Forestal Russfin Fire in Timaukel Commune in Tierra del Fuego Province, Magallanes Region as of Feb. 8, which has consumed 1,357 hectares (3,353 acres) of vegetation. The fire is located on the land of the Russfin Forestry, on Route Y-798, 30 km (19 miles) south of Villa Cameron, near Karukinka Natural Park.

Paillahue 4 and El Fortin Fires
Officials are maintaining a red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert for the Paillahue 4 and El Fortin fires in Galvarino District, Cautin Province, and Traiguen District, Malleco Province in the Araucania Region as of Feb. 8. The Paillahue 4 Fire has consumed approximately 211 hectares (521 acres) of vegetation in Galvarino and Traiguen districts, while the El Fortin Fire in the same districts has consumed around 200 hectares (494 acres) of vegetation. Authorities have reopened Route S-10.

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