Chile Wildfires Drone Footage Penco Lirquén Destruction 19 Dead 50K Evacuated

Post by : Bianca Haleem

Penco and Lirquén (Biobío, Chile): Dramatic drone footage has exposed the devastating aftermath of massive wildfires ripping through Chile’s coastal communities, leaving entire neighbourhoods reduced to ashes and twisted debris.

Authorities have confirmed 19 fatalities, while at least 75 people have been injured in the fast-moving fires. Emergency officials say more than 50,600 residents have been evacuated as flames continue to spread across multiple zones.

The disaster has already destroyed over 325 structures, along with multiple vehicles, as the fires tore through residential areas in Penco and Lirquén, forcing families to flee with little warning.

Trinitarias Megafire Expands Rapidly

One of the most dangerous blazes — the Trinitarias megafire — has reportedly burned across a 23-kilometre stretch, putting nearly 3,000 homes at risk. Fire crews are also working to protect a nearby gas plant, as flames and smoke intensify around critical infrastructure.

State of Catastrophe Declared

In response to the escalating emergency, President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of catastrophe, allowing additional resources and emergency powers to be deployed across affected regions.

Firefighters Struggle Against 24 Active Blazes

More than 3,000 firefighters are currently battling the crisis, with officials reporting 24 active wildfires still burning. The total area affected has crossed 20,000 hectares, with flames reaching the outskirts of Concepción, worsening the threat to populated zones.

Shelters Overcrowded, Damage Assessment Underway

Emergency shelters have been opened across the region. So far, nine shelters are housing over 630 displaced people, while authorities report at least 1,100 homes have suffered damage. Full damage assessments remain ongoing as crews continue search, rescue, and containment operations.

Additional Losses Reported in Ñuble

Officials also confirmed that the neighbouring Ñuble region has suffered additional wildfire-related losses, adding pressure to emergency services already stretched across the south.

Rescue teams continue to work in dangerous conditions as Chile faces one of the most destructive wildfire emergencies in recent years.

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