Forest fire on Cotopaxi's Putzalahua hill controlled after overnight efforts

Emergency crews in Ecuador's Cotopaxi province have successfully contained a significant forest fire that raged on Putzalahua hill in the Latacunga canton. The blaze, which began Wednesday night, was brought under control through extensive firefighting efforts that extended into the early hours of Thursday, August 27, 2026.

Brigades and municipal teams are currently deployed on the ground to extinguish remaining hot spots and prevent any rekindling of the fire, which could be triggered by wind and prevailing weather conditions. To support these efforts, municipal contingents mobilized heavy machinery, including an excavator, four trucks, and three water tankers. A team of 30 individuals from public works, water, and environmental departments are also working to clear paths and facilitate access for water vehicles on the difficult terrain.

The Latacunga Environment Directorate has initiated a technical assessment of a 123-hectare area to determine the precise impact on local flora and fauna. Preliminary estimates suggest approximately 14 hectares have been affected, though this figure is subject to confirmation after a full environmental review. Following the quantification of losses, a reforestation plan using native species will be coordinated to help restore the ecosystem.

Despite achieving near 98% control by morning, the presence of wind, temperatures reaching 20.5°C, and a high UV index created new smoke plumes by early afternoon. Local authorities advised nearby residents to keep windows closed as a precaution. The Provincial Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has convened to address the incident, with Cotopaxi's prefect, Lourdes Tibán, announcing that legal actions will be pursued to investigate the cause of the fire. The committee also resolved to improve road access and cross-reference cadastral data to understand agricultural expansion near the affected area. A call was made to municipal councilors to finalize an ordinance declaring the area a Sustainable Use Conservation Area (ACUS).

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The flames are preliminarily believed to have originated from...