Chile wildfires: Hundreds missing as thousands of homes burn

Burned cars stand outside the devastated home of Patricia Araya, known as 'La Pati,' a staff at the Botanical Garden of Vina del Mar who died in a fire along with her mother and her two grandchildren, aged 9 and one, in Vina del Mar, Chile, 05 February 2024

Many people were not able to flee in time and were overtaken by the wall of flames. Officials said that 123 had died, but so far only 33 have been identified.

The interior minister said the government’s priority was saving lives and stopping the fire. Meanwhile, volunteers are handing out food and clothes to those who have lost their homes.

Nearly 15,000 homes have been damaged, according to the authorities. Whole neighbourhoods have been razed and photos showed the twisted wreckages of burnt-out cars dotting the streets.

President Boric declared a state of emergency on Friday and imposed a night-time curfew.

Police and experts are investigating whether the fires may have been started deliberately.

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Publish date : 2024-02-05 11:01:00

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