Over 1,300 Forest Fires Burn 9,760 Hectares in Ecuador Since July

Ecuador is grappling with a severe wildfire season, with over 1,300 fires scorching nearly 10,000 hectares of land since early July. Official data reveals a concerning escalation, particularly in August, which has become the most destructive month so far.

The National Risk Management Secretariat reported 1,314 forest fires between July 1 and August 19, impacting an estimated 9,760 hectares. While July saw 631 fires affecting 2,670 hectares, the first 19 days of August witnessed a surge to 683 fires, consuming a staggering 7,090 hectares.

Provinces in the Andean region, including Pichincha, Imbabura, Azuay, and Chimborazo, have been hardest hit. Imbabura leads in affected surface area, with 3,753 hectares burned, followed by Loja, Pichincha, and the Colombian border province of Carchi.

In response, authorities mobilized over 1,700 resources, comprising specialized technicians, personnel from various institutions, park rangers, and surveillance groups. Aerial support, including seven drones and four helicopters, conducted 24 interventions, dropping over 280,000 liters of water, primarily in Pichincha and Imbabura.

Despite extinguishing major fires, three blazes remained active as of Wednesday morning in Carchi and Loja. Ecuador has managed these incidents with national capabilities, emphasizing the need for reinforced prevention and control measures during the dry season.