Latest news At least 16 dead in severe forest fires in Chile
At least 16 people have died in severe forest fires in the center of Chile. This was announced by Security Minister Luis Cordero. Around 50,000 residents of the Biobío and Ñuble regions were called upon to evacuate to safety.
18.01.2026, 15:56
18.01.2026, 18:22
SDA
"The evacuation orders are crucial. It is important that people follow them as soon as they receive them, especially because of the way the fire is developing," said Cordero.
Government declares a state of disaster
The government declared a state of calamity for the affected regions. So far, more than 250 houses have been destroyed by the fires. According to the forestry administration, almost 100 square kilometers were affected by the fires. Hundreds of firefighters and soldiers battled a total of 24 fires.
In the village of Lirquén, the fire came down from the hills and destroyed entire streets. "Everything is burnt. The fire has reached the sea. I've never seen this before," said a local resident on the Cooperativa radio station.
In summer in the southern hemisphere, there are always serious forest fires in Chile. Last year, more than 100 people lost their lives and around 15,000 houses were destroyed or damaged.
