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Wildfire Alert in Biobío: "Red Button" Declared in Several Communes of the Province

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Between December 2 and 6, 2024, the communes of Negrete, Yumbel, Cabrero, Los Ángeles, Quilleco, Tucapel, Mulchén, Antuco, Laja, and others have been placed on alert.

Due to adverse weather conditions in the Biobío Region, the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) has declared a "Red Button" alert in several communes, indicating a high risk of wildfire ignition and spread. This measure affects various localities in the Province of Biobío on specific dates, extending over several days.

Between December 2 and 6, 2024, the communes of Negrete, Yumbel, Cabrero, Los Ángeles, Quilleco, Tucapel, Mulchén, Antuco, Laja, and others have been placed on alert due to a significant increase in conditions favoring the occurrence of wildfires.

In response to this critical situation, the National Disaster Prevention and Response System (SINAPRED) has intensified monitoring and prevention actions in the affected communes, deploying forest brigades and strengthening emergency response mechanisms. The primary concern lies in the combination of factors such as high temperatures, strong winds, and dry vegetation, which could facilitate the spread of fires.

Risks and Recommendations

The "Red Button" alert means that the weather conditions in the mentioned communes are conducive to rapid wildfire spread, endangering forested areas, properties, and people's safety. According to CONAF's recommendations, the public is urged to:

Avoid agricultural or waste burning in the affected areas.

Refrain from using tools that may generate sparks, such as saws or machinery, in areas with dry vegetation.

Do not discard cigarette butts or lit matches in rural or wooded areas, as these could become the spark that starts a fire.

Thus, it is crucial for residents in the alerted communes to understand the risk posed by any reckless behavior and follow authorities' instructions.

Source:La Tribuna