On Wednesday 24, the President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, declared a natural disaster throughout the country. The reason for the emergency measure is the numerous forest fires that have devastated several regions. The situation is made even worse by high temperatures and the El Niño climate phenomenon.
An overview of the disaster
Colombia has already recorded around 204 fires in March this year, an average of eight fires per day. According to a report by the Ministry of the Environment and the Colombian Civil Protection Agency, 25 fires are still raging, destroying forests in different parts of the country.
Capital is threatened
Around Bogota, the country's capital, residents already worried about the situation are watching smoke rising from the mountains to the east. Helicopters appear in the sky over the city, bringing water to try to contain the fire there.
Red alert also in Chile
The emergency situation is not limited to Colombia. Due to the serious situation in the southern Araucania region, Chile also declared a red alert for forest fires. According to the Chilean National Forestry Association (CONAF), around 90 hectares have already been devastated by fires.
Fires threaten populated areas
In the municipality of Lautaro, firefighters face the difficult task of bringing nine active fires under control. And the situation is complex as the fire threatens populated areas. So far, one volunteer firefighter has suffered injuries on the job and 25 homes have been evacuated as a precaution.
Due to this worrying reality, Chile's National Civil Protection Service (SENAPRED) has maintained a red alert for fires in Lautaro since Wednesday, March 24.
The situation in both countries is critical and emergency measures are currently being taken to contain the destruction caused by forest fires. The funds provided by the government are intended to minimize damage and preserve people's lives and local biodiversity.