Argentina: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Corrientes Province as of early Feb. 16

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Corrientes Province Feb. 16. The fires have burned at least 519,000 hectares (1,282,476 acres), including 50,000 hectares (123,553 acres) of Ibera National Park. Firefighters have extinguished some fires in San Miguel and Loreto and are focusing efforts on fires in Ituzaingo and Riachuelo. More than 114 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment time frame. Forecast models indicate hot, dry, and windy conditions will persist over the coming days, which may hamper containment efforts and allow for additional wildfire growth. In late December 2021, authorities declared a nationwide emergency through December 2022 due to wildfires.

Evacuations
Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for a hotel chain and several homes on the banks of the Parana River. Authorities could expand mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions.

Transport
The wildfire could cause localized transport disruptions in the affected area. Anticipate the status of nearby roads to change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. Traffic flows could also be disrupted during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will 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.