Forest fires in Tarija's Central Valley cause distress in communities

Two significant wildfires in the Central Valley of Tarija have created a state of alarm among residents, particularly in the communities of Erquiz Ceibal and Tucumillas. The blazes, fueled by strong winds, threatened homes and necessitated the evacuation of several families.

Firefighting efforts, coordinated by subnational entities and volunteer firefighters, were severely hampered by gusting winds that made controlling the spread of the fires exceptionally difficult. "We had to evacuate families from several houses in Erquiz; we evacuated three families," a volunteer firefighter confirmed.

Mauricio Zamora, the Minister of Public Works, and Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas on Sunday morning. Zamora stated that the overflight revealed the "magnitude of the emergency" and highlighted the need for coordinated actions to bolster response efforts. "We continue to work jointly to address this situation and protect families and our natural heritage," he added.

The Tarija Governorate reported substantial progress in controlling and extinguishing the fires, estimating around 90% control in the Erquis and Tucumillas zones. Cooling and liquidation of active heat sources are ongoing, but an alert remains in place. Governor María René Soruco praised the tireless work of the Bolivian Police and Civil Defense, who worked through the night.

Authorities are urging the public to recognize the importance of environmental protection and to avoid actions that could spark such dangerous fires. Efforts are also underway in nearby communities, with the Cercado Mayor's office deploying personnel and water tankers. While control is estimated at 70% in the Quirusillas area, inaccessible mountainous terrain still harbors some heat sources.

“

Se evacuaron a familias de varias casas en Erquiz, Nosotros hemos evacuado a tres familias