Wildfires in central Chile kill at least eighteen—president
“We have a confirmed number today of 18 deceased persons, but we have the certainty, unfortunately, that this number will increase,” Boric told reporters.
As of 6 p.m. local time (2100 GMT), 33 forest fires remain active across the Biobio and Nuble regions, with the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) and emergency services continuing efforts to contain the flames. Fires are ongoing in Laja, Ranquil, Florida, Santa Juana, Quillon, and Nacimiento, authorities report.
Due to the severity of the situation, Boric declared a state of catastrophe at 2:30 a.m. for the two affected regions, aiming to facilitate containment, coordination, and security measures.
Curfews have been imposed in several areas: Lirquen from 7 p.m. until further notice, and Penco, Nacimiento, and Laja from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Monday.
Official records confirm that 300 homes were destroyed in Biobio, but Boric expects the total across both regions to surpass 1,000. He urged residents to follow emergency alerts promptly, citing the rapid spread of the Penco-Lirquen fire.
US Ambassador to Chile Brandon Judd posted on social media that President Donald Trump authorized US support to assist Chile in fighting the wildfires.
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