Massive Wildfire Rocks Chile, Leaving 18 Dead, Over 50,000 Evacuated; Toll Expected To Rise

Chile: At least 18 people have lost their lives as a devastating fire swept through south-central Chile, destroying homes and properties. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of catastrophe in the country following the massive wildfire. 

Over 50,000 people have been evacuated from the affected areas, and the firefighters are battling to contain the flames. The military has also stepped in to assist the firefighters, which have already scorched 8,500 hectares.

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Several charred bodies have been found in fields, homes, along roads and in vehicles, as the fire struck the region suddenly after midnight, trapping many inside their homes.

Chile’s government has ordered mass evacuations as forest fires up to 23km-wide burn through Chile, threatening communities across the Biobio and Nuble regions.

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The wildfire is known as Trinitarias continue to pose severe threat to nearby communities. Strong Puelche winds and a decade-long megadrought have accelerated the blaze, allowing flames to race through highly flammable pine and eucalyptus plantations. The situation is especially dangerous due to the fire’s proximity to the Indura gas plant, where any spread could trigger a major industrial disaster.