Chile: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Nuble, and Valparaiso regions as of Feb. 28

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Nuble, and Valparaiso regions as of Feb. 28. The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) has issued alerts for the following wildfires:

Loma Negra 3 Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert is in place for the Valparaiso Commune, Valparaiso Region from Feb. 28. The fire has consumed approximately 100 hectares (247 acres) of vegetation and has resulted in traffic disruptions on Route 68 in the El Cajon sector and at Camino La Polvora.

San Luis Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert is in place for El Carmen and Pemuco communes in the Nuble Region as of Feb. 28. The fire has consumed approximately 500 hectares (1,235 acres) of vegetation. Authorities have evacuated the Los Puquios, San Isidro, and Navidad sectors in El Carmen Commune, affecting around 20 people in the Los Puquios sector and around 60 houses in the other two sectors.

Casa de Agua Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert is in place for Melipeuco Commune in the Araucania Region as of Feb. 28. The fire has consumed approximately 400 hectares (988 acres) of vegetation and is spreading rapidly.

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