The Cerro Maule forest fire in Maule commune, ongoing since December 24, has now burned over 1,127 hectares—up significantly from initial reports—and remains active. Senapred ordered evacuation of Loteo San Francisco on December 25 amid threats to homes in nearby sectors. A red alert persists due to the fire's proximity to populated areas, tough weather, and an reported attack on a fire truck.
Initial smaller fires in Chacarillas (35 hectares) and Vara Gruesa, Linares (34 hectares) are now controlled, leaving the main Cerro Maule blaze threatening Loteo San Francisco, Doña Ignacia, and Don Humberto—building on prior SAE alerts and evacuations for seven sectors.
Firefighting involves 27 firefighter brigades (50 volunteers from Maule, Cumpeo, Molina, Cauquenes, Chanco), five Conaf brigades, one Army brigade, nine technicians, a command post, five heavy machines, six tanker planes, two helicopters, a coordination plane, and two BRIFE units. Presidential delegate Humberto Aqueveque noted rapid spread due to winds, steep terrain, and 33°C heat, with aerial drops key to protecting homes. Conaf's Daniel Flores said efforts target the left flank for intensity reduction and right-flank firebreaks ahead of stronger winds, with SuperTanker deployment under consideration.
Damages so far: two homes (vacation properties), two warehouses, and a shed with machinery. On December 24, assailants attacked a Z-5 fire truck, throwing stones, slashing hoses, and damaging the pump; no serious injuries occurred, but the vehicle was sidelined. Carabineros and PDI are investigating under Public Ministry orders. Aqueveque condemned the incident as 'unacceptable.'
The Maule commune red alert, active since December 24, continues. Prosecutors probe the fire's cause, suspecting negligence or arson. Senapred coordinates with Conaf and local authorities for monitoring and protection.
