Chile declares a state of disaster due to wildfires that killed 20 people
Stockholm, 20 January (Hibya) – Chilean President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of disaster in two regions affected by deadly wildfires that have killed at least 20 people.
More than 50,000 people have been evacuated in the Ñuble and Biobío regions, located about 500 kilometers (300 miles) south of the capital Santiago.
Boric said the death toll is expected to rise.
The most dangerous fire swept through dry forests surrounding the coastal city of Concepción. Disaster officials said around 250 homes were destroyed.
Local media published photos of burned-out cars in the streets.
Chile’s Forestry Agency, Conaf, said firefighters were battling 24 fires across the country on Sunday, adding that the most threatening ones were in Ñuble and Biobío.
So far, 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) have burned in the two regions.
Strong winds, combined with high summer temperatures, fueled the flames, endangering residential areas and hampering firefighting efforts.
Heat warnings have been issued across much of Chile, with temperatures expected to reach up to 38°C between Santiago and Biobío in the coming days.
Chile has experienced a series of devastating wildfires in recent years, exacerbated by prolonged drought.
Two years ago, wildfires in the Valparaíso region near Santiago killed at least 120 people.
Usa News Agency
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