As of January 2026, wildfires are severely impacting the Epuyén and El Hoyo areas in the Chubut province of Argentina, located in the Patagonia region. The fires, fueled by dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds, have spread rapidly across thousands of hectares of forested land, threatening local communities and wildlife.
Evacuations have been carried out in vulnerable areas, including parts of Epuyén and El Hoyo, which are known for their natural beauty and tourist attractions. Firefighting efforts, including the deployment of aircraft and ground brigades, are ongoing, but the difficult terrain and harsh conditions have made containment challenging. The smoke from the fires has significantly impacted air quality in nearby urban areas, causing health risks for residents.
The wildfires are exacerbated by climate factors, including drought and the effects of El Niño, as well as human activities such as illegal land clearing. National and provincial authorities are coordinating response efforts, with a focus on firefighting, evacuation, and providing relief to displaced residents. Given the continued dry conditions and climate unpredictability, the region remains at high risk for further wildfires.
