In response to escalating wildfires, President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of emergency in the southern Chilean regions of Ñuble and Biobío. The decision comes amid a surge in wildfire intensity and spread, prompting the evacuation of nearly 20,000 residents to safer locations.
According to reports released on Sunday, 18 January, 19 areas across Chile are currently affected by wildfires. Of these, 12 regions are concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital, Santiago, within Ñuble and Biobío. Firefighting teams nationwide are making every effort to bring the blazes under control.
Addressing the nation via social media, President Boric stated:
“Given the ongoing severe wildfires, a state of natural disaster has been declared in the Ñuble and Biobío regions. Every precaution is being taken to control the fires.”
Alicia Sebrián, Director of the National Disaster Prevention and Response Agency, confirmed that the highest number of evacuations have taken place in the towns of Penco and Lirquén in Biobío. Together, these towns have a combined population of approximately 60,000. Sebrián assured that temporary shelters and emergency food supplies have been provided for those displaced.
Footage shared on local television and social media depicts widespread flames engulfing the two towns, with vehicles burnt to ash and streets shrouded in dense smoke.
Wildfires are not new to central and southern Chile, which has experienced significant destruction in recent years. In February 2024, a major wildfire near Viña del Mar, northwest of Santiago, resulted in 138 fatalities and left nearly 16,000 people affected.
The table below summarises the current wildfire situation:
| Region | Total Population | Evacuated Residents | Fire Spread | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ñuble | 50,000 | 8,000 | 6 areas | Firefighting ongoing, efforts to control fires |
| Biobío | 60,000 | 12,000 | 6 areas | Penco and Lirquén most severely affected |
| Other Areas | – | – | 7 areas | Local authorities assessing damage and coordinating response |
The Chilean government has declared that full disaster preparedness measures are in place. Firefighters, military personnel, and local volunteer teams are working in coordination to manage the crisis. Authorities have also indicated that, should the fires intensify, further evacuations will be implemented to safeguard additional communities.
With scorching temperatures and dry conditions persisting, the situation remains critical, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and rapid emergency response.