Chile has been battling massive wildfires across several regions, with over 442,000 hectares of land already affected, according to the latest report from SENAPRED. The fires have led to 26 fatalities, with 17 in Bíobío, eight in La Araucanía, and one in Ñuble. In addition, more than 7,500 people have been affected, while almost 4,000 houses have been damaged or destroyed across eight regions.

The affected regions include Bíobío, Ñuble, Maule, La Araucanía, Los Ríos, and Magallanes, with active fires still burning as of 1 March. The situation prompted Chile to seek assistance from the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), leading to the deployment of over 260 emergency responders to the worst-hit areas, along with a liaison officer and an EU Civil Protection Team.

The Copernicus Emergency Management System was also activated in rapid mapping mode (EMSR647) on 6 February, producing 40 maps to support the response efforts.

Despite the combined efforts of local and international responders, the wildfire danger remains high to extreme in central and northern Chile, with the forecast for 3-4 March indicating further risks.

The Chilean government has urged residents to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and heed the advice of local officials. Meanwhile, the authorities continue to work to contain the fires and bring the situation under control, even as they deal with the aftermath of the disaster.