Chile: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Santiago Metropolitan and Valparaiso regions as of early Dec. 12

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Santiago Metropolitan and Valparaiso regions as of early Dec. 12. The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) has issued alerts for the following wildfires:

Altos de Popeta Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert has been in place for Melipilla Commune in the Santiago Metropolitan Region since Dec. 11. The fire has consumed approximately 160 hectares (395 acres) of vegetation. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for the sectors of Altos de Popeta, Callejon Ovejeria towards the Mandinga field, Mandinga, and San Juan de Popeta as well as from the Santa Cecilia forest subdivision to the Codihua meadows. Reports indicate that two people have been injured.

Los Coligues Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert has been in place for the Quilpue Commune, Valparaiso Region since Dec. 6. The fire has burned approximately 145 hectares (358 acres). At least one house has been destroyed and two other houses have been damaged.

Condominios Las Gaviotas Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert has been in place for Quintero and Quillota communes in the Valparaiso Region since Dec. 11. The fire has consumed approximately 140 hectares (346 acres) of vegetation. At least three houses in Quintero Commune and three structures in Quillota Commune have been destroyed. Four other structures in Quintero Commune sustained minor damage.

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