Patagonia wildfires: rain helps control the flames and brings relief to firefighters

After several days marked by wildfires, strong winds, and the relentless advance of the flames, rain arrived this Sunday in the mountainous region of Chubut, bringing much-needed relief to residents, volunteers, and firefighters.  While the rain does not signify the end of the emergency, it did improve the operational situation and reduce accumulated tensions. Rain fell near Epuyn, El Hoyo and other nearby rural areas. Although intensities varied, the increase in humidity allowed for a drop in temperature, helping to settle the smoke and aiding works on the ground.  Agencies involved in the emergency emphasized the importance of a much needed break in an otherwise complex scenario, but warned rain itself wont be enough to extinguish the remaining active fires.  This is particularly true for areas that are difficult to access and have abundant combustible plant material. For this reason, the ground and air operation remains active and under constant monitoring. Neighbors in Epuyn received the rains as long awaited good news and celebrated the weather phenomenon that will improve conditions for fighting the fire. Scenes of collective relief were observed, especially in historic places such as School No. 9. Rains arrived at a key moment, as two active fire spots were raising concerns. The first advanced along the slopes of Cerro Pilche, near Puerto Patriada, while another descended from the Coihue area towards the Arroyo Las Minas sector, posing a direct risk to the town center and homes near Route 40. Authorities reiterate call for caution Epuyn Mayor Jos Contreras highlighted the rain is helping to contain the fire’s advance and is reinforcing the special operation deployed to protect the most affected areas.  Similarly, the director of Municipal Civil Protection, Jorge Buenasea, confirmed the installation of mobile medical posts in the Balcn sector, Villa del Lago, and, conditions permitting, in the Coihue area, with the aim of assisting both residents and firefighters. The authorities insisted that the risk is still not completely ruled out. They pointed out the fires in Chubut are whats known as sixth generation fires, fueled by extreme drought and low humidity. They alter the dynamics of the upper layers of the atmosphere and generate winds that can be very difficult to model, making it impossible to predict the fires behavior. As such, authorities reiterated their call for caution, asking people to follow official instructions and avoid approaching the affected areas. The Epuyn community remains hopeful that the rainfall will continue and help bring greater peace of mind in the coming hours. Originally published on mbito