State of Exception in Biobío Extended Due to Fires

The state of constitutional exception of catastrophe in the communes of Concepción, Penco, and Tomé, in the Biobío region, has been extended for an additional 30 days, as reported by the Ministry of the Interior.

This decision, formalized through a decree in the Official Gazette, is due to the persistence of the conditions that led to the measure, given the magnitude of the damages caused by the wildfires that struck the region in January.

During the 2025-2026 fire season, these communes were the most affected, with a toll of over 20,000 people impacted and 21 fatalities. Additionally, severe damage was recorded to housing, infrastructure, and basic services. The Executive's document emphasizes that the extension is justified by the fire's danger, the risk of spread, the number of affected people, and the geographical characteristics of the territory, which have complicated control and recovery efforts.

Essential work is still being carried out in the area, such as the installation of emergency housing and the restoration of sanitary services. Therefore, the Government stresses the need to "continue ensuring public order and safety."

The same decree confirms the renewal of Rear Admiral Edgardo Acevedo Pérez's position as head of National Defense in the region, maintaining his leadership of operations in the context of the emergency.