# Forest fires in Dominican Republic protected areas > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/forest-fires-in-dominican-republic-protected-areas > Updated: 2026-09-17T11:43:00.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 2. The Dominican Republic has declared an environmental emergency following forest fires that have impacted over 150 square kilometers of land, including protected ecosystems such as Valle Nuevo, Jaragua National Park, and La Humeadora. A major blaze in the Sierra de Bahoruco National Park, specifically near the Aceitillar and Hoyo de Pelempito areas, has destroyed dense pine forests and threatened endemic wildlife. The Observatory of Protected Areas suggested the fires may have human origins related to negligence or illegal activities like cattle ranching or hunting. Containment efforts involve over 250 firefighters, military personnel, and civil defense units using ground and aerial support. While light drizzle has recently increased humidity and aided control efforts near the humid forest edge, officials have noted that more significant rainfall is necessary for a decisive impact on the situation. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-17: Dominican Republic addresses pig farming support and forest fires Dominican Republic officials are addressing agricultural stability for pig farmers and managing a forest fire in the Sierra de Bahoruco National Park. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-addresses-pig-farming-support-and-forest-fires ### 2026-09-16: Sierra de Bahoruco fires trigger environmental emergency in Dominican Republic The Observatory of Protected Areas has declared an environmental emergency in the Dominican Republic as forest fires affect over 150 sq km, including a major blaze in Sierra de Bahoruco National Park. 15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sierra-de-bahoruco-forest-fire-mobilizes-250-firefighters --- Cite as: Forest fires in Dominican Republic protected areas. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/forest-fires-in-dominican-republic-protected-areas