At least 14 people have died after a wildfire swept through the town of Penco in Chile, destroying hundreds of homes and prompting mass evacuations. Authorities warned that the death toll is expected to rise as firefighters continue to battle the blaze and search for missing residents.

Video footage from the scene shows vehicles evacuating families amid flames and thick smoke, with signs of local infrastructure engulfed by the fire. The disaster is part of a broader emergency in the Biobío region, where 50,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes. Reports indicate that the total fatalities may already be approaching 18 to 19 as emergency teams assess the devastation.

The wildfire was triggered by extreme heat and prolonged drought conditions, one of 24 active fires currently burning across Chile, collectively scorching an estimated 20,000 hectares since January 18, 2026. The intensity and spread of the fires have led President Gabriel Boric to declare a state of catastrophe, enabling the deployment of enhanced firefighting resources and emergency assistance.

Authorities are coordinating rescue efforts, establishing temporary shelters, and prioritizing evacuation routes while battling the fast-moving flames. The scale of the disaster highlights the severe impact of climate conditions in Chile this season, with officials urging caution and cooperation to prevent further loss of life.