What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of January 20, 2026, multiple large wildfires are burning across central Chile, particularly in the Valparaiso and Biobio regions. The fires have affected coastal hills, forested areas, and urban outskirts near Vina del Mar and Quilpue.
Extreme heat, strong winds, and prolonged drought have driven rapid fire spread, making these among Chile’s deadliest wildfires in recent years (1).
Fire and air quality map of Central Chile as of January 20, 2026. Source: IQAir.
For a complete, real-time overview of wildfire activity and air pollution levels, view Chile’s fire and air quality map for the latest updates.
Which cities or areas are affected by the Chile wildfires?
The wildfires have affected several densely populated and forested areas, including:
Smoke has spread across central Chile, significantly degrading air quality and visibility in urban and coastal communities (2).
What is the current containment status of the Chile wildfires?
As of January 20, 2026, the wildfires remain partially contained, with multiple active fire fronts still burning. Firefighters continue suppression efforts amid extreme heat, low humidity, and strong winds.
Authorities report some stabilization in select areas, but overall conditions remain volatile, and full containment has not yet been achieved (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Chilean authorities have ordered mass evacuations in high-risk zones, particularly around Vina del Mar and Quilpue.
Thousands of residents have been displaced, and a state of catastrophe has been declared to mobilize military support and emergency resources. Officials continue to urge residents to follow evacuation orders due to rapidly changing fire conditions (4).
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
