Chile's Wildfire Crisis: Death Toll Surpasses 130 Amid Historic Heatwave
The deadliest wildfires in the Southern Hemisphere's history have claimed over 130 lives in Chile, fueled by record-breaking temperatures and a severe drought.
- Over 130 people have died and more than 300 are missing due to catastrophic wildfires near Viña del Mar, Chile.
- The fires, stoked by temperatures up to 42.9°C (109°F), have destroyed over 14,000 buildings, causing billions in damages.
- Chile's President Gabriel Boric declared a state of emergency as the nation grapples with the disaster.
- Climate change and a decade-long megadrought have exacerbated fire conditions, making these the deadliest wildfires in Chile's history.
- Global trends show an increase in deadly wildfires, driven by climate change and poor land management.