According to the initial reports, about 120 people were reported dead from the wildfires, and the death toll will likely rise. Firefighters in Chile fought around the clock to extinguish the deadly wildfires that became widespread.
The country suffered from devastating forest fires that tore portions of the Valparaiso region, calling for urgent efforts to mitigate the spreading wildfires. Climate change and rising temperatures could contribute to the problem worsened by strong winds and dry vegetation.
Search and rescue operations are underway to help with the affected residents in Chile, especially for the vulnerable communities. People in the area are advised to stay updated with the latest reports before they travel or plan any outdoor activities.
In addition, families of missing people should inform authorities. Videos and images revealed the massive damage brought by the raging forest fires. Wildlife in the area is also affected.
Chile Deadly Wildfires
Viña del Mar, Chile, on February 6, 2024. The recent reports showed that the deadly wildfires killed at least 120 people in Chile. The current death toll is likely to rise. In the recent NWN reports, raging wildfires can happen at any time or become more frequent due to rising temperatures and dry conditions. Climate change is also a factor that worsens fire activities, with a lack of rainfall and hotter temperatures.
According to the latest weather report, about 120 people were reported casualties from the fires with about 161 active fires in the country. Firefighters were also working hard to mitigate the fires. About 102 of said fires were also mitigated.
A state of Emergency was also declared in the areas of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. Communities near the region were also immediately evacuated to save them from injuries and potential damage.
The rising temperatures or heatwaves exacerbated the wildfire effects in the country with the arrival of El Nino. The report warned of more intense fires.
Furthermore, homeowners should watch out for poor air quality and emerging fires. Limiting outdoor activities is also recommended to prevent prolonged exposure to unhealthy air.
Meanwhile, authorities are yet to provide the overall damage from the fires. However, it is expected to reach up to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Wildfire Concerns and Preparedness
In the recent NWN reports, raging wildfires can happen at any time or become more frequent due to rising temperatures and dry conditions. Climate change is also a factor that worsens fire activities, with a lack of rainfall and hotter temperatures.
Frequent fires could have devastating aftermaths to people's properties, lives and health. As a result, wildfire management and preparedness are crucial. When communities are not prepared, they could suffer from wildfire impacts.
Extreme weather events could bring prolonged drought, wildfires and heatwaves. Scorching heat can cause heat stress and heat stroke, particularly for the following:
- older adults
- children
- people with medical conditions
During wildfire events, people need to evacuate from their homes immediately. As a result, keeping emergency kits is essential that they could bring. It is not advisable to stay at home to prevent unhealthy air quality.
Related Article: Fire Frequency Can Cause Ecosystem Collapse, Research Shows
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