Chilean president declares state of catastrophe as wildfires kill at least 15
Fires blaze through 8,500 hectares, forcing 50,000 people to evacuate as firefighters struggle to extinguish flames
TL;DR
- At least 15 people have died in wildfires affecting central and southern Chile.
- Thousands of hectares of forest have been scorched, and numerous homes destroyed.
- A severe heatwave is contributing to the dangerous wildfire conditions.
- President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in the Biobío and Ñuble regions.
- 24 wildfires have burned 8,500 hectares, prompting 50,000 people to evacuate.
- Strong winds and temperatures reaching 38C (100F) are hindering firefighting efforts.
- Residents reported being caught by surprise by the fast-moving fires.
- One municipality, Concepción, reported 253 homes destroyed.
- Fatalities were concentrated in the town of Penco.