03 Feb 2023 | 06:02 AM UTC
Chile: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfires in Bio Bio and Nuble regions as of early Feb. 3; evacuations underway /update 1
Emergency crews responding to wildfires in central Chile, as of early Feb. 3; evacuations underway. Transport disruptions almost certain.
Event
Authorities in the Bio Bio and Nuble regions, including the National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Servicio Nacional de Prevencion y Respuesta ante Desastres, Senapred), are responding to a series of wildfires that have caused evacuations, transit disruptions, and power outages as of early Feb. 3.
Authorities have issued a red alert for Chillan, Nuble Region. Firefighters are battling at least two fires that have consumed around 140 hectares (346 acres) and damaged at least four structures. The blaze injured two firefighters. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; further fire growth is possible. Officials have established a shelter for people displaced by the fire at the Ramon Vinay School. Evacuations are also underway in the outskirts areas of Coelemu, Nuble Region, due to an uncontrolled blaze that has damaged at least three buildings.
Officials have also declared a red alert for Arauco, Los Angeles, and Yumbel in Bio Bio Region, due to wildfires. Related evacuations are underway. A wildfire north of Quillon is also causing evacuations in San Ramon and Santa Ana neighborhoods. The fire has destroyed at least six buildings and consumed 200 hectares (494 acres); no casualties have yet been reported.
Transport and Utilities
Fires are causing disruptions to several highways. Authorities have closed the Itata Highway (Highway 152) between Chillan and Nueva Aldea as well as numerous other points between Nueva Aldea and Concepcion; they urge the public to avoid the entire highway between Concepcion and Chillan. Highway 146 between Cabrero and Concepcion is also closed because of heavy smoke.
The status of roads can change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close more routes within the fire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and response operations needs. Traffic disruptions are also likely during reentry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Smoke and ashfall from bushfires may cause poor air quality in surrounding areas. Power outages and utilities that rely on electricity could experience outages within and near the wildfire complex.
Health
Smoke from fires 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 with preexisting respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Monitor official news sources. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected areas; 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 case of prolonged power outages.
