Chile: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Biobio, and Valparaiso regions as of March 3 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Araucania, Biobio, and Valparaiso regions as of March 3. 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 has been in place for the Valparaiso Commune, Valparaiso Region since Feb. 28. The fire has consumed approximately 350 hectares (865 acres) of scrub and eucalyptus forest. Route 68 in the El Cajon sector and at Camino La Polvora has since been reopened, and the drinking water supply to the affected area has been restored.

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

Los Coihues 2 Fire
A red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) alert has been in place for Penco and Tome communes in the Biobio Region since March 1. The fire has consumed approximately 700 hectares (1,730 acres) of vegetation in Penco Commune and is forecast to spread to Tome Commune over the coming hours and days. The fire is spreading rapidly, threatening homes in the San Jose sector in the Penco Commune and the La Cantera sector in the Tome Commune; as of late March 2, no damage to houses or critical infrastructure has been reported. Authorities have preemptively evacuated 12 people from 6 families from the San Luis sector in Tome Commune. Additional evacuations are possible depending on the spread of the fire.

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