# Ecological and wildfire crisis in Chile

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ecological-and-wildfire-crisis-in-chile
> Updated: 2026-08-25T12:24:28.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

Central and southern Chile are experiencing significant ecological and physical threats driven by environmental stressors and wildfires. Researchers report that the sclerophyllous forests of central Chile are facing a potential ecological collapse, with approximately 40% of the ecosystem at risk due to climate change, wildfires, and land development.

Data regarding fire impacts in the region shows that between 2013 and 2025, over 1.2 million hectares were affected by fires, with a small number of large-scale incidents accounting for the vast majority of the burned area. Recent localized fires have caused immediate destruction, including the loss of homes in Antofagasta and Los Lagos, as well as significant damage to a hotel in Coyhaique.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-25: Chile faces significant fire impact from historical data and recent local emergencies

Chilean data shows 1.2 million hectares burned in central-south regions since 2013, while recent fires in Antofagasta, Los Lagos, and Coyhaique have destroyed homes and infrastructure.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chile-wildfire-data-reveals-12-million-hectares-burned-since-2013

### 2026-08-25: Chilean sclerophyllous forests face ecological collapse

Chile's central sclerophyllous forests are at risk of collapse due to climate change and urban expansion, despite their vital role in regulating temperature and preventing natural disasters.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chilean-sclerophyllous-forests-face-ecological-collapse

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Cite as: Ecological and wildfire crisis in Chile. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ecological-and-wildfire-crisis-in-chile