Chile Declares Emergency As Raging Wildfire Kills 18 & Forces 50000 To Evacuate Their Homes

A state of emergency has been declared in Chile as raging wildfires have killed at least 18 people and forced more than 50,000 to flee their homes. A night-time curfew has also been announced in the worst-hit areas. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise. Here are all the latest details we know so far.

Raging Wildfire In Chile Kills At Least 18 People 

According to a report by The Indian Express, Chilean President Gabriel Boric has declared a ‘state of catastrophe’ in the country. Wildfires raging across central and southern Chile have claimed at least 18 lives so far. The fires have scorched thousands of acres of forest and destroyed hundreds of homes. Extreme heatwaves have been cited as the main reason behind the wildfire outbreak in this South American country.

A state of emergency has been declared in Chile’s central Biobio region and the neighbouring Nuble region. These areas lie around 300 miles south of Santiago, the capital of Chile. Reportedly, the number of casualties is expected to rise. The fires have also forced more than 50,000 people to leave their homes.

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Fires Spread Across Biobio & Nuble

As per a report by CNN, firefighters were battling 24 active fires across the country as of Sunday morning. The wildfire has consumed nearly 21,000 acres in the Biobio and Nuble regions, putting several communities at risk. According to a report by The Indian Express, the fire engulfed most of the town of Penco. It burned cars, a school and a church. Many residents scrambled to take shelter in makeshift emergency camps.

Authorities said strong winds and high temperatures have fuelled the spread of the wildfire. While firefighters continue efforts to control the blaze, the situation remains complicated. Chile and Argentina have both experienced extreme heatwaves since the beginning of 2026. This has led to devastating wildfires in Argentina’s Patagonia region earlier this month, followed by the wildfire in Chile.

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Authorities are awaiting more updates on the wildfire situation. Let’s hope conditions improve soon.

Cover Image Courtesy: @boiagentone and @ProennekeH/ X