In the last few hours, the province of Córdoba has witnessed a devastating wave of forest fires that has forced the evacuation of dozens of residents in various locations. Despite the intense efforts of firefighters and reinforcements sent by the nation’s Ministry of Environment, new fire outbreaks continue to appear, unleashing a desperate battle against the flames.
The first signs of the fire arose in the area of the “400 homes,” which connects Villa Carlos Paz with Cabalango and Tala Huasi in Punilla. At least 30 people had to be evacuated due to the intense smoke that invaded their homes. The quick response of brigade members and the police led to the arrest of a young man, Ulises Xarate, 27, accused of accidentally starting the fire while trying to make coffee.
The fire has spread over several kilometers, affecting towns such as Cabalango, Cuesta Blanca, Icho Cruz, Mayú Sumaj, San Antonio de Arredondo, Tala Huasi, and Villa Carlos Paz. Given the seriousness of the situation, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of the Nation has deployed three hydrant planes, an observer, and a helicopter with a bucket, in addition to sending 14 combatants from the National Center Brigade, equipped with 4×4 trucks.
Adverse weather conditions, with temperatures close to 35 degrees Celsius and wind gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour, have further hampered the efforts of local firefighters and volunteers. Supportive neighbors have contributed by wetting the area with water taken from their home pools.
In the midst of this fight against the flames and the relentless climate, the community faces a titanic task: to contain the fires and protect homes at risk. The bravery and determination of firefighters, volunteers, and local residents have become a moving testament to human unity and resilience in the face of nature’s fury.