Chicago – January 18, 2026
Santiago, Chile – Raging wildfires fueled by extreme heat and fierce winds have killed at least 18 people in southern Chile, forcing thousands to flee as firefighters struggle against the blazes. President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in the Ñuble and Bío Bío regions on Sunday, enabling military assistance and emergency measures.
Firefighters are battling 24 active fires, with the most intense outbreaks scorching over 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) near Santiago. Nearly 20,000 residents have evacuated, and at least 250 homes have been destroyed, according to Chile’s Senapred disaster agency. Local officials report entire neighborhoods incinerated, with thick smoke blanketing the skyline.
Extreme weather, including temperatures up to 38°C (100°F) and winds up to 55 mph, has hampered containment efforts. “The flames spread uncontrollably overnight,” said one resident in Penco. This crisis follows regional heatwaves affecting Chile and Argentina.
