Chile forest fires move into populated areas, kills at least 46
Intense forest fires raging in a heavily populated area of central Chile have killed at least 46 people, Chile's president stated Saturday evening. The officials further informed that at least 1,100 houses have been damaged. (Image credit: Reuters)
Death toll could worsen, warns Chilean president
In a nationally televised address, President Gabriel Boric cautioned that the death toll could rise as four huge fires rage in Valparaiso, where firefighters have failed to reach the most vulnerable districts. (Image credit: AP)
'Don't hesitate to evacuate'
Urging the Chileans to cooperate with rescue workers, President Gabriel Boric said, "If you are told to evacuate don't hesitate to do it. The fires are advancing fast and climatic conditions have made them difficult to control. There are high temperatures, strong winds and low humidity." (File photo: Reuters)
92 forest fires currently in Chile, deadliest in Valparaiso region
According to interior minister Carolina Toha, 92 forest fires were burning in Chile's central and southern regions keeping the temperatures abnormally high this week. The deadliest flames have occurred in the Valparaiso region, where authorities ordered thousands of people to evacuate their houses. (Image credit: AP)
Coastal resort town Vina del Mar at risk
The interior minister informed that two fires in the villages of Quilpue and Villa Alemana had consumed at least 8,000 hectares (19,770 acres) since Friday. One of the flames threatened the coastal tourist town of Vina del Mar, where several neighborhoods had already suffered significant damage. (Image credit: AP)
'Never imagined this would happen'
Taken aback by the horror caused by the incident, Rolando Fernandez, one of the residents who lost his home said, "I've been here 32 years, and never imagined this would happen." (Image credit: AP)
Region up in flames within 15 minutes
Fernandez further exclaimed that he first noticed the fire on a nearby hill Friday afternoon, and within 15 minutes, the area was engulfed in flames and smoke, forcing everyone to escape for their lives. "I've worked my whole life, and now I'm left with nothing," he said. (Image credit: AP)
Rescue work underway
The interior minister informed that three shelters were put up in the Valparaiso area, and 19 helicopters and more than 450 firemen were dispatched to help fight the fires. (Image credit: AP)
El Nino weather pattern increasing forest fire incidents
This year's El Nino weather trend has prompted droughts and higher-than-normal temperatures in the western part of South America, increasing the risk of forest fires. (Image credit: AP)