Aerial footage has captured the scale of devastation caused by wildfires sweeping through Punta de Parra, a coastal settlement near Tomé in Chile’s Biobío Region. The drone video reveals charred homes, roads blocked by debris, and emergency response vehicles maneuvering amid plumes of smoke as the fires continue to burn.

The wildfires, which began around January 14, 2026, are part of 24 active blazes in the Biobío Region. They have scorched approximately 20,000 hectares, claimed at least 19 lives, and displaced over 50,000 residents. The Chilean government has declared a state of catastrophe, citing extreme dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds that have accelerated the spread of the fires.

Authorities are coordinating firefighting efforts, deploying personnel and equipment to protect communities and critical infrastructure. Emergency shelters have been set up to support displaced families, while recovery teams work to assess property damage and provide aid.

The wildfires underscore the increasing threat of climate-related disasters in Chile, where prolonged drought and rising temperatures have amplified the risk of catastrophic fires. Officials are calling for continued vigilance, community support, and international assistance to combat the blazes and aid affected populations.