Bolivia declares emergencies in multiple departments due to fires and climate events

Bolivia is facing multiple regional emergencies as the Vice Ministry of Civil Defense reports various adverse events across several departments. Chuquisaca, Potosí, Tarija, and Oruro have declared states of emergency due to a combination of forest fires, droughts, river overflows, and snowfalls.

In Chuquisaca, a man-made forest fire in the Fancesa sector affected 15 hectares. The blaze, reportedly caused by individuals attempting to burn trash or pasture, spread rapidly due to wind and came within 400 meters of urban areas. Authorities utilized drones, water tankers, and personnel from the police, military, and fire departments to control the situation. Investigations into the cause of the fire are underway.

In addition to the fires, Santa Cruz has issued an emergency declaration, though technical details regarding river overflows are still being assessed. The central government is coordinating response efforts with the Armed Forces and local governments, noting that assistance is activated following specific legal procedures once local and departmental declarations are formalized.