Medellín controls three major forest fires, mayor reports progress

Medellín is reporting significant progress in controlling three major forest fires that had placed the city on high alert since August 28. Mayor Federico Gutiérrez announced on August 29 that the fires in La Gabriela and Rodeo Alto have been stabilized, bringing relief to nearby communities concerned about the flames spreading towards residential areas.

While the situation in La Gabriela and Rodeo Alto has improved, emergency services are now focusing their attention on the western part of the city. The fire in Tres Cruces, an iconic hill, continues to require continuous technical and human resources for cooling and controlling hotspots, especially given strong winds that could reignite the flames.

Mayor Gutiérrez extended his gratitude to all individuals and institutions involved in the fight against the fires, acknowledging the risks taken by firefighters, rescue organizations, and community members. He assured the public that teams remain on-site until the situation is completely under control.

The city's Administrative Department for Risk Management and Disaster Reduction (Dagrd) continues to monitor the affected areas and urges citizens to report any smoke plumes immediately to the emergency line. The fires have caused significant environmental damage to the vegetation and local fauna.