Chile prepares for 2026-2027 forest fire season

Authorities in Chile are initiating preparations for the 2026-2027 forest fire season in the Maule and Biobío regions. In Maule, Conaf has opened 400 job positions for forest brigades, regional coordination centers, and fire analysts. Regional Presidential Delegate Juan Eduardo Prieto announced the reactivation of the Firefighting Table, a coordination body involving public and private sectors, the Public Ministry, and police.

Concerns regarding the upcoming season are heightened by recent heavy rains, which officials warn will increase vegetation growth and create more fine fuel for potential fires. In the Biobío region, preparations include the recruitment of brigadiers and the implementation of new detection tools by forestry companies. Conaf is currently defining operational capacities and resource distribution to address the complexities highlighted by previous large-scale fires in the area.