Puno, Peru wildfire threatens road and nearby communities

A fast‑moving forest fire erupted near kilometer 35 of the Puno‑Mañazo highway in the Puno region, driven by strong winds and extremely dry vegetation. The blaze has destroyed hectares of pastureland and generated dense smoke that sharply reduces visibility on the road.

The regional Emergency Operations Center (COER) declared an active emergency, warning that the flames could reach populated areas and grazing zones. Responders from local fire brigades, the National Police, the Peruvian Army and community volunteers are battling the fire to protect lives, livestock and livelihoods. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution on the affected stretch and have reiterated bans on agricultural burning while urging the public to report new fire spots to emergency lines.