Unexpected rains in Chubut's Comarca Andina brought relief to the wildfires that have scorched thousands of hectares, though authorities keep the alert as not all foci are extinguished. The national government confirmed that 22 of 32 fires are fully controlled, while brigadists demand salary improvements. President Javier Milei praised the heroism of the firefighters.
The wildfires in Chubut, which started a week ago, have devastated at least 12,000 hectares in Epuyén, with the affected area doubling on Saturday due to strong winds that reduced visibility to zero and forced a total closure of Ruta 40. On Sunday, January 11, 2026, unexpected rains fell in key areas like Parque Nacional Los Alerces, Esquel, El Hoyo, and Epuyén, wetting the asphalt and moistening the hillsides previously engulfed in flames. Witnesses in the Rincón de Lobos area reported: “Yesterday the fire was at the edge of the road; today the mountain breathes”.
Although the forecast predicted precipitation for Wednesday, rain arrived before noon, lowering temperatures and settling the smoke. However, experts warn that 20 to 30 millimeters sustained are needed to consider the fires contained, and brigadists must monitor underground foci to prevent rekindling. The government confirmed that 22 of the 32 fires are “completely extinguished”, with 295 brigadists on the ground: 232 national (128 from Parques Nacionales and 104 from the Agencia Federal de Emergencias) plus 63 from Córdoba. The Air Force deployed 15 aerial resources, fire trucks, and military logistical support, along with humanitarian aid.
President Javier Milei stated on X: “Nothing more heroic than risking your life to save others” and “They are giving it all”, thanking brigadists, firefighters, and volunteers. Cabinet Chief Manuel Adorni highlighted the coordinated effort. However, brigadists complain of precarious conditions: salaries between 650,000 and 850,000 pesos per month, below the basic basket, exclusion from 2024 negotiations, 69.49% budget under-execution in 2025 (43.912 million pesos), and a 53.6% drop for 2026. Brigadist Fabián Lagos from Nahuel Huapi demanded in a video: “We are asking for the essentials: a dignified salary, permanent staffing, stability, and an adequate retirement. We need urgent responses”. Justice confirmed the fires were intentional.
