Pinar del Río is facing a critical situation due to forest fires affecting the province: only four out of the seven hotspots have been brought under control, while the flames have already devastated over 800 hectares of forests across various municipalities, exacerbated by the severe drought and strong winds.
According to local authorities from the Forest Service, one of the most concerning hotspots is located in Minas de Matahambre, specifically in the Arenal area, where the fire has consumed around 200 hectares of forest.
Additionally, the media reported on the social network Facebook that new fires were reported in the municipality of Consolación del Sur, in the areas of Piloto and El Chorrito, further complicating containment efforts.
Over 800 hectares affected by the flames
Despite the intensity of the disasters, authorities emphasize that the measures implemented on the ground have prevented direct damage to the civilian population. Special attention has been focused on Mantua, where the spread of the fire has not compromised nearby communities.
The combination of prolonged drought and strong winds has been decisive in the rapid spread of the wildfires, which already exceed both in number and severity those reported during the same period last year.
Complicated zone
Since the night of April 18, the wooded area of La Vigía, in the San Juan y Martínez municipality of Pinar del Río province, has already been devastated in over 300 hectares of pine forest.
According to the local outlet Tele Pinar, the incident has been classified as the most complex of the year in the country, due to several factors that have hindered containment efforts: strong gusts of wind ranging from 35 to 45 kilometers per hour, difficult-to-access terrain, and a prolonged drought that has already exceeded 90 days without rain in the region.
Urgent call for prevention
In light of the concerning situation, the authorities issued a call to the public to strengthen prevention efforts and avoid dangerous practices such as uncontrolled agricultural burning, throwing lit cigarette butts on rural roads, poaching in forested areas, and the operation of vehicles without spark arresters.
These actions, according to the forest ranger service, are among the main causes of wildfires in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wildfires in Pinar del Río
How many hectares have been affected by forest fires in Pinar del Río so far?
In the province of Pinar del Río, wildfires have ravaged more than 800 hectares of forest across various municipalities. In the Arenal area alone, the fire has consumed around 200 hectares of forest. This situation has been exacerbated by an intense drought and strong winds that facilitate the spread of the flames.
What are the main causes of fires in Pinar del Río?
The main causes of forest fires in Pinar del Río are human actions and adverse weather conditions. Among the human practices that contribute to these incidents are uncontrolled agricultural burns, throwing lit cigarette butts, poaching, and the circulation of vehicles without spark arresters. Additionally, prolonged drought and strong winds have facilitated the spread of wildfires.
What measures are being taken to control wildfires in Pinar del Río?
To control wildfires, several measures are being implemented, such as creating firebreaks and using bulldozers to build paths. Additionally, brigades have been sent from various municipalities to reinforce firefighting efforts. Authorities have also called on the public to enhance prevention and avoid dangerous practices that could lead to new fires.
What impact have the fires had on the population and the environment of Pinar del Río?
Despite the magnitude of the fires, the authorities have managed to prevent direct harm to the civilian population. However, the environmental impact has been significant, with large areas of forests destroyed, affecting local biodiversity. Pinar del Río, being one of the most reforested provinces in Cuba, has suffered serious environmental damage that threatens its natural ecosystem.
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