Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Winds Revive Major Blaze Near Lago Epuyén as Chubut Wildfire Fight Continues

Prosecutors report deliberate ignition using accelerants, prompting Chubut to offer a 50 million peso reward.

Overview

  • Strong gusts reactivated a significant front on the slopes above Lago Epuyén, pushing smoke toward the town and forcing crews to reinforce lines as forecasters call for light rain to intensify on Wednesday.
  • Officials say 22 of 32 detected fires are extinguished, yet high‑risk fronts remain active in Puerto Patriada, Epuyén, El Hoyo and Los Alerces National Park.
  • Roughly 12,000 hectares have burned, about two dozen homes were damaged or destroyed, thousands were evacuated, and power outages persist in Epuyén and Cholila.
  • More than 580 personnel are deployed with multiple aircraft, including a Boeing 737 FireLiner, and the danger index has eased from very extreme to high after scattered rains.
  • Evidence of arson has led the province to join the criminal case and seek maximum penalties, while President Javier Milei thanked firefighting crews and Chile signaled readiness to assist.