Chile's Wildfires: Deadly Flames and Mass Evacuations

Wildfires in Chile have claimed at least 19 lives, prompting mass evacuations as intense heat and high winds exacerbate nearly two dozen blazes. Authorities are fighting 23 fires across the country, with notable destruction in Ñuble and Bío Bío regions. Chile is under extreme heat warnings.

Wildfires ravaging Chile have resulted in at least 19 fatalities, authorities confirmed on Monday. The government has initiated mass evacuations to combat two dozen blazes worsened by scorching temperatures and fierce winds.

Overnight weather conditions aided in controlling some fires, yet significant ones remain active. Security minister Luis Cordero emphasized the high temperatures projected for the day, expressing concerns about potential new ignitions.

Regions in central and southern Chile are enduring extreme heat alerts, with temperatures expected to soar up to 37 degrees Celsius. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of catastrophe in Ñuble and Bío Bío, where more than 20,000 hectares have been devastated, affecting coastal towns and threatening infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)