Chile Wildfires Kill 18, Force Mass Evacuations; State of Emergency Declared

• Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in Ñuble and Bío Bío regions due to rapidly spreading wildfires.
• At least 18 people have died, and nearly 20,000 people have been evacuated from affected areas.
• The fires have burned approximately 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) and destroyed at least 250 homes.
• Strong winds and high temperatures, reaching up to 38 C (100 F), are exacerbating the fires and hindering control efforts.
• Chile and Argentina have been experiencing extreme temperatures and prolonged heat waves since the beginning of the year.

Why It Matters: Deadly wildfires in Chile's southern regions have prompted a state of emergency, mass evacuations, and resource mobilization.