Chile Declares State of Catastrophe as Wildfires Kill at Least 18

Chilean President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in two southern regions after wildfires killed at least 18 people and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes.

More than 50,000 residents were evacuated from the Nuble and Biobio regions, about 500 kilometres south of Santiago. Boric said the number of deaths was likely to rise.

The most severe blaze tore through dry woodland near the coastal city of Concepcion, destroying about 250 homes. Local media showed burnt-out vehicles lining the streets.

Chile’s forestry agency Conaf said firefighters were tackling 24 fires nationwide on Sunday, with the most dangerous burning in Nuble and Biobio. Around 8,500 hectares have already been scorched in the two regions.

«In view of the serious fires that are still ongoing, I have decided to declare a state of catastrophe,» Boric said on X, adding that all available resources would be mobilised. The measure allows the armed forces to be deployed in support of emergency efforts.

Most evacuations took place in the cities of Penco and Lirquen, north of Concepción, which together are home to about 60,000 people.

Strong winds and extreme summer heat have fuelled the flames, putting communities at risk and complicating firefighting operations. Large parts of Chile remain under heat alerts, with temperatures forecast to reach 38C in the coming days.

Kursiv also reports that Jose Antonio Kast won Chile’s presidential election on December 14, 2025 with 58% of the vote.