Chile: Wildfires affecting parts of Valparaiso and O’Higgins regions as of early Dec. 10

Wildfires are affecting parts of Valparaiso and O’Higgins regions as of early Dec. 10. The National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Servicio Nacional de Prevencion y Respuesta ante Desastres, SENAPRED) has issued red alerts (highest on a three-tier scale) for fires for Marga Marga Province, as well as Santo Domingo and Valparaiso communes, in Valparaiso Region, and Las Cabras Commune in O’Higgins Region. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories dependent on the development of wildfires and changing weather conditions over the coming days.

Villa Alemana and Limache communes in Marga Marga Province have been the most affected; fires have burned approximately 500 hectares (1,235 acres). Authorities have evacuated at least 374 people in the communes.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.