Deadly Forest Fires Ravage Central Chile, Leaving Over 100 Dead and Thousands Displaced

Massive forest fires erupted in central Chile, leaving at least 112 people dead and over 1,600 homes destroyed over three days. The city of Viña del Mar faced the highest intensity of the fires, destroying a famous botanical garden and displacement of thousands. The fires, fueled by unusually high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, expanded from mountainous forested areas to densely populated neighborhoods despite efforts to contain them.

President Gabriel Boric declared two days of national mourning, and curfews were imposed to prevent looting in affected cities. Rescue workers are searching through collapsed homes, with concerns that the death toll might rise further. Authorities are investigating the possibility of intentional causes for some fires. The blazes, exacerbated by El Niño-induced drought and high temperatures, have burned through 8,000 hectares of forest and urban areas, marking a devastating crisis for Chile.