Scientists explain why Chile may face deadly fires again in the future

According to a new report by scientists, Chile is at risk of experiencing horrific wildfires like the ones that devastated the central part of the country in January and February this year. Climate change, which is making the world hotter and drier, could lead to a repeat disaster.

Large-scale fires in 2024 became the deadliest natural disaster in Chile since 2010 when an earthquake killed about 500 people, Japan Today writes. Strong winds and high temperatures contributed to the rapid spread of the fire to settlements near the cities of Vina del Mar and Valparaiso.

Scientists from the World Weather Attribution studied the deterioration of weather conditions that contribute to fires – temperature, wind speed, and atmospheric humidity - using the Hot Dry Windy Weather Index (HDWI).

The scientists found that neither global warming nor El Niño had an impact on the fires, as the coastal region of Chile is cooling and temperatures in the center of the country are rising. However, they say global warming will change this situation.

"We expect many more of these fires to occur in the future," said Joyce Kimutai, co-author of the study.

Under the current scenario of warming by 1.2 degrees Celsius annually, such fires can be expected once every 30 years. The areas around the same affected cities of Vina del Mar and Valparaiso are at the highest risk.

The report also noted that urban sprawl, whose planning was called "inadequate," and changes in land use contributed to the tragedy.

The researchers emphasized the need for better warning systems, evacuation planning, and fire protection systems.

As TravelWise previously reported, the death toll from the wildfires raging in central Chile has risen to 131. Hundreds of victims remain missing.