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Forest Fires Increase by 117% in the Biobío Province: Los Ángeles Leads in Occurrence

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The National Forestry Corporation (Conaf) has raised alarms in the Biobío province after updating figures for the current season, marked by a significant increase in the number of fires and the damaged area compared to the same period last year. The institution stated that the behavior of the fire over recent weeks anticipates a complex period for Biobío due to the rise in fires recorded in various parts of the territory, with a particular concentration in Los Ángeles.

Increase in the Province

In contact with La Tribuna, the regional director of CONAF, Esteban Krause Salazar, contextualized that the current season has shown unexpected growth in the number of emergencies, with an increase that far exceeds last year's records.

"In the Biobío province, we have already recorded 24 forest fires so far this season, a 117% increase compared to the same date last year," he stated.

Consequently, he elaborated on the direct consequences of this increase, especially in terms of territorial damage and the rapid spread of fire.

"The affected area reaches 19.72 hectares, which represents an increase of over 885%. These figures are alarming and reflect that we are facing a season of high occurrence and high risk," he added.

Concentration in Los Ángeles

The official provided background on the fire's behavior in different areas of the province, where its capital has concentrated the highest number of emergencies during this season.

"We are particularly concerned about the municipality of Los Ángeles, which has already recorded 21 fires, a 320% increase compared to the same date last season, making it the municipality with the highest occurrence in the province," he commented.

Likewise, Krause detailed that other municipalities in Biobío have seen a relevant increase, although with dynamics different from those recorded in its capital.

"(After Los Ángeles), Mulchén follows with eight fires, a figure that corresponds to the same percentage recorded during the previous period, and Laja with six fires, a 200% increase compared to last season," he added.

From the organization, they added that this type of behavior—abrupt increases, repeated hotspots, and greater damaged area—directly affects operational capacity by forcing more relocations, maintaining continuous active crews, and increasing preventive patrol tasks.

Call to the Community

The authority emphasized that, given the scenario the province is experiencing, the population must take an active role in prevention, avoid risky behavior, and report any situation that could lead to a fire, as early response is essential to contain new emergencies. "Therefore, we reiterate the call to citizens to maximize preventive measures, avoid the use of open flames outdoors, not throw cigarette butts on the ground, and responsibly use machinery that can generate sparks," he stated.

Finally, Krause reminded that the institution has a direct channel to receive alerts and requests for assistance. "In case of any emergency or suspicious situation, we ask you to immediately contact Conaf at 130. Community collaboration is essential to prevent new emergencies," he concluded.

Source:La Tribuna