Forest fire engulfs over 50 hectares in Santander, Colombia, prompting helicopter assistance

A forest fire erupted on 17 July in the El Buque sector of the El Peñón municipality, Santander department. The blaze has burned more than 50 hectares of virgin forest that serves as a sanctuary for macaws and threatens nearby settlements such as Panamá, Buena Esperanza, Porterito and La Victoria. Residents reported a massive plume of smoke and feared further spread.

Departmental risk manager Eduar Sánchez said the fire “se dio en una zona de alta montaña” and exceeded the capacity of local responders. He confirmed that the National Disaster Risk Management Unit (UNGRD) was asked to provide helicopter support to tackle the hotspots. Authorities urged communities to keep windows closed, avoid open burning, and report any fire signs to prevent additional outbreaks.