South America: Heightened risk of travel disruption across the region during wildfire season through end of December

Wildfires are likely to cause sporadic, localized disruptions to transport and business operations in rural areas of South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Uruguay, through at least the end of December. Above-average temperatures and dry conditions are forecast across much of the region. Bolivia has recorded the largest number of outbreaks of wildfires in 14 years, with 3 million hectares (7.5 million acres) of land burned as of late August 2024 and peak fire season still ahead. Brazil has also recorded the worst start to the wildfire season in 20 years, with wildfires in major cities and in the Amazon rainforest exacerbated by record drought conditions.

Wildfires are a typical feature during the dry season in South America, particularly after long dry spells or extreme temperatures, and can lead to evacuations, road closures, and ground transport diversions. Disruption to arterial roads is also possible. While the emergency services are typically able to contain such fires and implement effective route diversions, authorities could declare local states of emergency to facilitate the emergency response to severe incidents.

Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people who have pre-existing respiratory conditions - such as respiratory allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Heavy smoke can impede visibility, producing hazardous driving conditions on some roads, and could prompt short-notice flight disruptions if wildfires occur near airports. Railways can also experience occasional cancellations of services and long delays.