🔥 Fires in Patagonia: more than 15,000 hectares affected in Chubut and concern grows about possible intentionality

The forest fires that have been affecting the province of Chubut for several days have already consumed more than 15,000 hectares of native forests and grasslands, in one of the most severe events of the summer season. The provincial and national authorities are deploying a wide operation to try to contain the advance of the fire, which is favored by the high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds characteristic of the region.

🚒 A large-scale operation

More than 350 firefighters, including personnel from the National Fire Management Service (SNMF), volunteer firefighters, provincial teams and federal forces, are working on different active fronts. The operation includes:

• Ground crews with hand tools and motor pumps
• Helicopters with helibucket for aerial unloading
• Hydrant planes operating from nearby bases
• Logistics, communications and health support teams

The tasks are concentrated in areas that are difficult to access, where the mountainous topography and the density of the forest make it difficult for the brigade members to advance.

🌲 Environmental impact and risk to communities

The fire affects areas of high ecological value, with the presence of native species such as cypress, coihue and lenga. Specialists warn that the recovery of these ecosystems may take decades.

Although no fatalities were recorded, several rural communities remain on preventive alert, and some residents were temporarily evacuated due to the advance of smoke and the proximity of the flames. Intermittent roadblocks were also reported on routes and secondary roads.

🔍 Possible intentionality is being investigated

Judicial and environmental authorities opened an investigation to determine the origin of the fire. Although there are no official conclusions yet,  intentionality, a recurring factor in the fires in the region in recent years, is not ruled out.

Sources from the provincial government indicated that testimonies, satellite images and patterns of fire initiation are being analyzed to establish responsibilities.

🏛️ Official response and requests for reinforcement

The national government activated the SNMF emergency protocol and sent additional resources at the request of the province. Environmental organizations and local leaders are calling for greater investment in prevention, infrastructure and control, especially in areas where real estate and tourism pressure has grown rapidly.

🌦️ Forecast and outlook

The weather forecast for the next few days anticipates adverse conditions, with high temperatures and variable winds that could complicate containment tasks. Teams on the ground are working to consolidate firebreaks and prevent the fire from reaching populated areas or more sensitive nature reserves.

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