04 Feb 2023 | 08:54 PM UTC
Chile: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfires in Bio Bio, Nuble, Maule, and La Araucania regions as of Feb. 4 /update 2
Emergency crews continue responding to wildfires in central Chile as of Feb. 4; evacuations underway. Transport disruptions almost certain.
Event
Authorities in the Bio Bio, Nuble, La Araucania, and Maule regions, including the National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Servicio Nacional de Prevencion y Respuesta ante Desastres, Senapred), continue to respond to a series of wildfires that have prompted evacuations, transit disruptions, and power outages as of Feb. 4.
Bio Bio, Nuble, and La Araucania are under an exceptional state of catastrophe, and authorities have confirmed 22 people were killed and more than 500 injured in those regions due to the fires. Additionally, there are 32 shelters hosting more than 1,400 people in the area. The fires have burned over 40,000 hectares (98,840 acres) in the three regions. In the Maule region, Curepto, Pencahue, and Sagrada Familia townships are under red alert due to fires that have affected 905 hectares (2,230 acres).
Reports indicate there are 251 fires active in central Chile, with more than 3,000 firefighters attempting to control them with support from over 1,800 members of the military. There is no estimate as to when the fires will be under control or completely extinguished; weather forecasts indicate high temperatures in the area will continue, although strong winds will be less frequent on Feb. 5.
Transport
Multiple roads will likely be affected over the coming days, especially in the Bio Bio and Nuble regions. The status of roads may change with little to no warning; 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.
