Chile declares emergency after wildfires force 20,000 to evacuate
Summary
Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of emergency in the Nuble and Biobio regions after wildfires forced the evacuation of about 20,000 people.
Key Points
- Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of natural disaster in Nuble and Biobio regions due to severe wildfires.
- Around 20,000 people have been evacuated from their homes mostly in the cities of Penco and Lirquen.
- Firefighters are battling 19 wildfires across Chile, with 12 in the affected southern regions.
- Previous wildfires in February 2024 near Vina del Mar caused 138 deaths and affected about 16,000 people.
