Related videos:
The province of Pinar del Río has recorded 43 wildfires so far this year, affecting more than 500 hectares, primarily of pine forests.
The figures, which already exceed those of the same period in 2024, are occurring during a critical stage of the calendar, spanning from January to May, reported the official broadcaster Radio Guamá via Facebook.
According to Alexander Pereda Burón, head of the Forest Rangers in Pinar del Río, most of the fires have been caused by human actions.
Only 12% of the cases originated from natural causes, such as lightning strikes during storms, a phenomenon that typically peaks in May, although six cases related to lightning were already reported in March.
Despite the increase in these events, the official stated that 93% of the fires were contained before they spread beyond five hectares.
The note also underscores the need to intensify preventive measures in the area, in light of the significant rise in these incidents, which threaten not only biodiversity but also the safety and natural resources of Cuba's most forested province after Holguín.
Currently, the territory has 11 specialized brigades, as well as the necessary resources for immediate response.
However, the authorities have recognized the urgency of strengthening awareness campaigns and preventive actions.
The climatic context, combined with human intervention, continues to be a trigger for uncontrolled fires spreading through forest areas that are essential to the Cuban ecosystem.
The first 62 days of 2025 witnessed an alarming start to the year for forests and other wooded areas in Cuba: 136 fires ravaged 813.14 hectares, according to official data.
Between January 1 and March 3, the Cuban Forest Rangers Corps (CGC) reported a significant number of incidents in most Cuban provinces and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud, with the only exceptions being Havana and Camagüey.
According to the Fire Management Department of the CGC, as reported to the Cuban News Agency (ACN), three regions accounted for more than half – 72 wildfires – of the total incidents that occurred during that period.
At that moment, the province of Pinar del Río was leading the statistics, with 30 fires and 479 hectares (ha) damaged; Isla de la Juventud had reported 23 incidents and 56.7 ha affected; and Cienfuegos recorded 19 incidents and damage to 46 hectares.
The fires in those three territories of the country devastated 581.7 hectares of forests and vegetation, which represents about 70% of the total area affected by active and controlled fires.
In March, a large wildfire in Torre Vieja, located in the province of Pinar del Río, was finally brought under control after devastating 400 hectares of forests, predominantly pine trees, according to Radio Guamá.
The fire began in the mountains of the municipality of San Juan y Martínez, specifically in the Torre Vieja area, about 25 kilometers from the municipal seat.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wildfires in Pinar del Río
How many hectares have been affected by wildfires in Pinar del Río in 2025?
More than 500 hectares have been affected by wildfires in Pinar del Río so far in 2025, surpassing the figures from the same period last year. Most of these fires have occurred in pine forests and have been caused by human activity.
What is the main cause of wildfires in Cuba in 2025?
The main cause of wildfires in Cuba during 2025 has been human activity, accounting for 95% of the cases. Factors such as negligence in fire management, uncontrolled burns, and the use of vehicles without spark arresters have significantly contributed to the increase of these incidents.
What actions are being taken to prevent forest fires in Pinar del Río?
To prevent forest fires in Pinar del Río, the authorities have implemented specialized brigades and resources for immediate response. In addition, awareness campaigns and preventive actions are being intensified to minimize the risk of future fires. Despite these measures, there is a recognition of the need to further strengthen these strategies.
What has been the largest fire in Pinar del Río in 2025?
The largest fire in Pinar del Río in 2025 occurred in the Torre Vieja area, in the municipality of San Juan and Martínez, where it devastated 400 hectares of forests, predominantly of pine trees. Adverse weather conditions and the high concentration of combustible material contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Filed under: