(AI-Translation): Español

A series of wildfires in Chile has led to a national declaration of a “state of catastrophe,” with several ports experiencing operational challenges.

The emergency follows extensive fires in the country’s southern region, where damage has affected communities and transport infrastructure.

In the most severely impacted areas, the ports San Vicente, Talcahuano and Lirquén have been directly disrupted by wildfires. Lirquén has ceased operations entirely, while San Vicente and Talcahuano are functioning with restrictions.

Elsewhere along the coast, port conditions vary. In the northern zone, Angamos Terminal in the Port of Mejillones faces limitations caused by heavy swells, although Arica, Iquique, Antofagasta and Coquimbo remain operational.

In the central zone, both terminals in Valparaíso are restricted due to similar weather‑related swells, while San Antonio and Puerto Talcahuano are operating without weather‑related disruption.

Despite the widespread emergency, several ports such as Coronel and Punta Arenas continue to operate normally. However, the combination of fire‑affected regions and adverse sea conditions has created an uneven operating landscape across Chile’s port network.

Across the country, the forestry agency has indicated that firefighting teams are working against numerous active fires. Strong winds and high seasonal temperatures have further complicated containment efforts.