SANTIAGO, Chile — On Saturday, President Gabriel Boric of Chile announced the implementation of state of emergency measures in the central and southern regions of the country in response to the imminent danger posed by intense wildfires.
The emergency declarations specifically target the Nuble and Maule regions and are intended to protect forests, agricultural lands, residential areas, and human lives. Included in these measures are curfews designed to help law enforcement address potential criminal activities associated with the fires.
During a press briefing held at the presidential palace, Boric expressed his belief that a significant portion of the wildfires currently affecting the Araucanía region, located south of Santiago, may have been intentionally set.
“We will not stand for the reprehensible actions of individuals or organizations that engage in such activities,” Boric declared, underscoring his commitment to combatting the arson.
According to local officials, there are approximately 15 active wildfire incidents across Chile at this time, exacerbated by temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Recent reports indicate that authorities have made over 60 arrests related to the forest fires specifically in the Araucanía region.
Last year, devastating wildfires resulted in numerous fatalities and the destruction of more than 1,000 homes, particularly in the Valparaiso area.