17 Apr 2018 | 01:48 PM UTC
Chile: Wildfire in O'Higgins region April 17
Red alert in place April 17 due to forest fire in Las Cabras commune, O'Higgins region (Chile)
Event
A red wildfire alert - the highest level - was issued by the National Emergency Office (ONEMI) for the commune of Las Cabras (O'Higgins region) on Tuesday, April 17. As of Tuesday, the so-called La Parralina fire has burned some 10.5 hectares (26 acres) of wood and scrub land. A lower yellow alert had been in place since April 16.
Context
Forest fires are common in Chile during the summer months. The country was devastated by a string of major forest fires in January 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 11 people, as well as the destruction of around 1500 houses and over 580,000 hectares (1.4 million acres).
Advice
Individuals in the areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
