Wildfires in Patagonia, since they broke out last year, have already devastated 13,000 hectares of forest, scrubland, and grasslands.
These territories include the areas of Epuyén and Atilio Viglione, in the province of Chubut, and Nahuel Huapi National Park, in RÃo Negro and Neuquén.
Wildfires in Patagonia: the case of Epuyén
The fire in Epuyén. (Photo: X-@ansentipensante).
In Epuyén, authorities pointed out that more than 5,000 hectares were consumed. The town in Chubut is in an interface zone, meaning a transition between urban, rural, semi-rural, and wooded areas.
Moreover, the fire affected 70 homes. In this case, it is believed to have originated in an abandoned pine plantation due to human action. This is an exotic species that accelerates fires due to the dryness they cause in the soil, the proportion of oils in their composition, and the multiplying effect of the explosions of their fruits.
This, combined with the drought and strong winds, led to the loss of so many hectares since it all began on January 15th.
The Minister of Security and Justice of Chubut, Héctor Iturrioz, stated in a press conference that the fire’s start “was intentional and endangered thousands of families.”
Following this line, investigations and expert examinations are being carried out to determine the causes and identify those responsible.
The governor of the province, Ignacio Torres, blamed the Mapuche community, specifically the RAM (Mapuche Ancestral Resistance), after evicting them with the National Security Ministry from their homes in Los Alerces National Park.
In a conversation with AM750, Moira Millán, a Mapuche activist, labeled Torres’ statements as “criminal.” “They generate a subjectivity of hatred towards the Mapuche people,” she pointed out.
“I believe that every time a situation they need to conceal arises, what I call a smokescreen, they bring up that fantastic invention called RAM. RAM doesn’t exist. And if it does, it’s in the Casa Rosada,” Millán said.
Nahuel Huapi: at least 6,000 hectares
Fire in Nahuel Huapi National Park. (Photo: National Parks).
In Nahuel Huapi National Park, the fire consumed around 6,000 hectares and endangered hundreds of native animal and plant species. It has been burning since December 16th, following a lightning storm.
The wind, with gusts between 50 and 60 kilometers per hour, is another factor complicating fire control. Additionally, the fire is spreading in hard-to-reach areas like the Strict Reserve of the National Park, where there are steep terrains.
Local authorities have restricted nautical activities on nearby lakes, as the water bomber plane refills in those areas to fight the fire. They have also closed roads and blocked access to Los Alerces Waterfall, as it is close to one of the most active fire spots.
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