Overview

• Colombia is experiencing its worst wildfire crisis in decades, with over 17,000 hectares destroyed since November.
• The wildfires have been fueled by an unusually strong El Nino weather pattern, leading to the country's hottest January in decades.
• President Gustavo Petro has declared a natural disaster, allowing funds to be diverted towards containing the blazes.
• Authorities are investigating whether arsonists are causing some of the fires, with 26 people arrested for fire-related offences.
• The country's Human Rights Ombudsman has urged local authorities in high-risk regions to initiate preventive measures.