Hundreds of people still missing as Chile’s wildfire death toll reaches 122
Volunteers in central Chile were actively engaged on Monday in the daunting task of clearing charred metal, shattered glass, and other debris from neighborhoods left devastated by the recent wildfires. The death toll, tragically, rose to 122, with hundreds still unaccounted for.
The fires, which had raged intensely since Friday on the eastern fringes of Viña del Mar, showed signs of abating by Monday morning. Quilpé and Villa Alemana, two other towns in the Valparaíso region, also faced severe impacts, resulting in President Gabriel Boric revealing that approximately 3,000 homes had been incinerated in the area.
Marisol Prado, the director of Chile’s Forensic Medical Service, announced an additional 10 victims, bringing the death toll to 122 by Monday afternoon. The condition of many bodies posed identification challenges, prompting forensic workers to collect genetic material from those reporting missing relatives.
Viña del Mar’s Mayor, Macarena Ripamonti, reported that at least 370 people were missing in the city of 300,000 residents.
The wildfires ravaged precarious mountainous neighborhoods to the east of Viña del Mar, a popular beach resort. Officials suggested intentional provocation for some fires, with dry weather, strong winds, and low humidity exacerbating their rapid spread.
Residents shared harrowing experiences. Priscila Rivero, a chef from Alto Miraflores, recounted losing her home within 15 minutes as flames swiftly approached. Despite heartbreaking losses, she expressed determination, stating, “It’s the place where we have lived all our lives.”
U.S. President Joe Biden conveyed his condolences, stating readiness to assist Chile. Public buildings in Viña del Mar and Santiago are serving as donation depots, while affected residents returned to search through debris. Police urged unaffected individuals to stay home for smoother rescue operations.
In Villa Independencia, Marco Delgadillo, a construction worker, faced the ruins of his home built 25 years ago. Despite the devastation, he expressed resilience, emphasizing the need for municipal support in rebuilding. Delgadillo remarked, “We don’t have any other choice; buying a new plot of land is unaffordable right now.”
As Chile grapples with the aftermath, the collaborative efforts of volunteers, officials, and international support remain crucial for recovery.
Source: Associated Press – Agencies