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Chubut Wildfire Expands to Nearly 12,000 Hectares as More Firefighters Deploy

Forensic tests indicating accelerant at the ignition site have steered the investigation toward deliberate arson.

Overview

  • Officials reported 11,970 hectares burned near El Hoyo, Epuyén and Puerto Patriada, with multiple active fronts and evolving assessments.
  • National and provincial authorities said 295 firefighters and 15 aircraft are operating, with about 80 additional brigadistas joining local efforts Sunday.
  • The fire crossed National Route 40 and threatens a power plant and schools, prompting continued evacuations and protection of homes and infrastructure.
  • More than 3,000 people were evacuated and at least 10 homes were destroyed as heat, drought and strong winds under an SMN orange alert hinder containment.
  • Prosecutors cited evidence of fuel at the origin point, a 50 million‑peso reward was offered for information, and Chile offered assistance to support operations.