Forest fire has taken a terrible form in the Patagonia region of Argentina. This fire, especially spread in the Andes mountain region of Chubut province, has been wreaking havoc continuously for the last one week. According to officials, so far this fire has reduced forests in an area of about 12,000 hectares to ashes.
The fire started on January 5, 2026, near Puerto Patriada, a small area in Chubut province. The fire spread so rapidly that it crossed National Highway No. 40 and now poses a serious threat to local communities. The flames threatened a power plant, schools and several rural properties. The dense clouds of smoke are so dense that firefighters are having to work hard.
Argentina’s fire service has launched a major campaign to deal with this disaster. More than 290 fire fighters have been deployed, including 15 helicopters and aircraft, fire engines and logistical support from the Army. Local volunteer firefighters are also engaged in this campaign. President of neighboring country Chile, Gabriel Boric, has also offered help.
A volunteer firefighter said, “It is very sad to see everything burning. We are trying our best, but sometimes it is not enough. What is happening is terrible.”
Some reports indicate that the fire may have been deliberately set. Chubut Governor Ignacio Torres has said he is taking a tough stance on those who set the fire. He said, “The miscreants who set this fire will go to jail.” A reward of 50 million pesos (about 34,000 US dollars) has also been announced for anyone providing information.
This massive fire has happened exactly one year after the devastating fire of last year (2025), which caused the highest damage in decades and burnt about 32,000 hectares of area to ashes. This time, drought conditions and strong winds have made the fire more fierce. There has been some relief since the rains have started in some areas, but many fire points are still active and the danger remains.