As thousands are forced to escape due to wildfires, Chile declares a state of calamity.

SANTIAGO (Reuters) At least 20,000 people were evacuated due to raging wildfires in two southern districts of Chile early on Sunday, prompting President Gabriel Boric to declare a state of calamity.

Firefighters are fighting 24 active fires nationwide as of Sunday morning, according to Chile’s CONAF forestry agency. The worst fire is in the areas of Ñuble and Bỹ Bío, where the government has declared an emergency. The areas are around 500 kilometers south of Santiago, the capital.

“I have chosen to proclaim a state of calamity in the areas of Ñuble and Biobío due to the severe current wildfires. In a post on X, Boric stated, “All resources are available.”

Authorities have issued evacuation orders since fires have already destroyed around 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) in the two areas, putting several towns in risk.

According to Chile’s Senapred disaster service, at least 250 homes have been demolished and over 20,000 people have been evacuated.

Strong winds and high temperatures, according to authorities, have contributed to the development of wildfires and made it more difficult for firefighters to contain them.

With temperatures predicted to reach up to 38 C (100 F) from Santiago to Bío Bío on Sunday and Monday, a large portion of Chile is under an excessive heat alert.

Since the start of the year, Chile and Argentina have both seen extremely high temperatures and heat waves; early this month, deadly flames broke out in Argentina’s Patagonia.