Chile faces significant fire impact from historical data and recent local emergencies

Data from the first MapBiomasFuego Chile collection reveals that over 1.2 million hectares in central-southern Chile were affected by fires between 2013 and 2025. The study shows that just 3.2% of large-scale fires were responsible for nearly 88% of the total burned area. The Maule Region accounts for 30% of the total affected surface.

Recent localized incidents have also caused significant damage. In Antofagasta, a fire destroyed ten homes in two camps, leaving 55 people displaced, including 18 minors. In Los Lagos, a fire destroyed a fire station and damaged at least six homes. Additionally, in Coyhaique, a fire destroyed approximately 70% of the El Calafate apart hotel, requiring a complex water supply operation by firefighters to contain the blaze.