Multiple Deaths in Forest Fires in Chile
Severe forest fires have broken out in Chile. According to authorities, at least 19 people have died. Many houses have been destroyed, including those in the popular tourist coastal city of Viña del Mar.
Several people have died in the severe forest fires in Chile. Interior Minister Carolina Toha reported 19 fatalities, but the number could still increase.
Dozens of forest fires are currently raging in the central and southern parts of the South American country. Reports state that thousands of hectares of forest have been destroyed by the flames. They have partially spread to houses, including those in the popular tourist coastal city of Viña del Mar. Some areas had to be evacuated. President Gabriel Boric declared a state of emergency in the affected areas. This is to mobilize all available resources to combat the fires.
Heatwave in large parts of the country
Several regions in Chile are currently facing a heatwave. According to the Chilean climate authority, temperatures of up to 37 degrees Celsius were expected over the weekend. Scientists attribute the heat to a large extent to the cyclical weather phenomenon El Niño, which warms the Pacific Ocean.
Many residents of the capital Santiago have flocked to the coastal areas of the country to escape the heat, which are already crowded with domestic and international visitors.