Colombia battles 25 active forest fires across multiple regions

Colombia is currently managing 25 active forest fires across several departments, affecting more than 1,000 hectares of land. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (Ungrd) reports that the fires are concentrated in Tolima, Nariño, Antioquia, Huila, Quindío, Cundinamarca, Norte de Santander, and Santander.

The emergency is exacerbated by high temperatures linked to the El Niño phenomenon and dry conditions, which facilitate the rapid spread of flames. These fires are occurring while the country simultaneously manages the aftermath of a major earthquake that took place eight days ago. In Tolima, the situation is particularly severe, with more than 30 active fires reported in various municipalities, leading Governor Adriana Magali Matiz to declare a state of departmental public calamity.