At least 18 people were killed on Sunday as wildfires sweeping across central and southern Chile burned thousands of acres of woodland and destroyed hundreds of homes, authorities said, as a severe heat wave gripped the country.
President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in the central Biobío region and neighbouring Ñuble, about 500 km south of Santiago. The emergency measure enables tighter coordination with the armed forces as officials battle roughly two dozen blazes that have charred around 8,500 hectares and forced about 50,000 people to evacuate, according to Security Minister Luis Cordero.
Massive wildfire broke out in Concepción, Biobío Region, Chile 🇨🇱 (18.01.2026) pic.twitter.com/IUNWIdXwpD
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) January 18, 2026
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Boric wrote, "In Concepción, we met with local and national authorities to monitor the firefighting efforts against the severe forest fires occurring in the Biobío and Ñuble regions, and to expedite all available State resources for controlling the fire and protecting lives."
"I also spoke with the president-elect, José Antonio Kast, because between our government and the incoming government we will jointly address the effects of this emergency, acting in a coordinated manner to confront the catastrophe and respond to the Chilean men and women who need us today. I have no doubt that we will all be guided by the same approach, placing the well-being of our people at the center," added Boric.
These are difficult times for the country, especially for areas such as Penco and Tomé, which is why I want to express my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. Today we have a confirmed number of 18 people deceased, but unfortunately we are certain that this figure will increase. For that reason, I send them all the affection of Chile. Know that we are working with all the resources of the State deployed.
Boric confirmed 18 deaths (with more expected) and emphasised joint efforts with president-elect José Antonio Kast amid Chile's political transition. He wrote, "These are difficult times for the country, especially for areas such as Penco and Tomé, which is why I want to express my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. Today we have a confirmed number of 18 people deceased, but unfortunately, we are certain that this figure will increase. For that reason, I send them all the affection of Chile. Know that we are working with all the resources of the State deployed." [sic]
Firefighters struggled to contain the flames as strong winds and extreme temperatures—reaching 38°C—hampered efforts throughout the day. While the nationwide toll of destroyed homes was still unclear, the municipality of Concepción in Biobío reported 253 houses burned.
Watch LIVE TV, Get Stock Market Updates, Top Business, IPO and Latest News on NDTV Profit.
