Authorities in Peru have reported that wildfires have resulted in at least 15 fatalities and the destruction of over 3,000 hectares of cultivated land and natural areas. The Prime Minister stated that human activity was the cause of the fires, with 22 out of the country's 24 regions currently experiencing active outbreaks. Unfortunately, the firefighting efforts are being hindered by clouds, smoke, and strong winds that are affecting the available aircraft.
According to a Civil Defense report, since July, 15 individuals have lost their lives, while 98 others have sustained injuries due to the fires. The report also highlighted that 10 of the fatalities occurred in the past two weeks, with over 1,800 people being impacted by the blazes. The livestock sector has suffered significant losses, with 334 animals reported dead.
The National Forest and Wildlife Service of Peru, SERFOR, emphasized that the impact of climate change is exacerbating the conditions that contribute to the rapid spread of fires. Factors such as intense winds and prolonged droughts are drying out vegetation, transforming it into highly flammable fuel that aids in the swift propagation of fires.
Notably, some of the most challenging fires are concentrated in the Amazon region, particularly along the border with Ecuador. The head of civil defense highlighted the complexity of the situation in this area during a recent interview with a local television station.
As the wildfires continue to ravage parts of Peru, authorities are working tirelessly to contain the blazes and mitigate further damage. The situation underscores the critical need for enhanced measures to prevent and combat wildfires, especially in the face of changing environmental conditions.
For more updates on the situation in Latin America and the Caribbean, visit AP's coverage.
