Forest Fires Devastate Over 20,000 Hectares in Tolima

Forest fires in the Tolima department of Colombia have consumed more than 20,000 hectares, affecting crops, livestock, and wildlife. Governor Adriana Matiz reported that the fires have devastated lemon, corn, avocado, coffee, mango, and plantain crops, while leaving over 18,000 cattle without food. In some areas, more than 50 homes have been affected. The emergency has impacted between 13 and 14 municipalities, with 22 active fire fronts reported. The Ibagué to Espinal double highway and the Líbano to Villahermosa road have both experienced disruptions due to the flames.

Minister of the Interior Rodrigo Lara announced that 150 firefighters from various local municipalities are working on the ground, supported by 90 additional reinforcements from Jamundí, Tuluá, the eastern Antioquia region, Bogotá, and Huila. The response effort includes the National Fire Department, the National Army, the Air Force, and the Police. Aerial support is being provided by the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD). Authorities have noted that difficult terrain and limited water access have complicated firefighting efforts in areas such as Carmen de Apicalá and Armero Guayabal.

Regarding the causes, Governor Matiz stated that while some fires resulted from controlled burns, there are investigations into potential criminal activity in the Coello municipality, where witnesses reported men on motorcycles starting fires. Meanwhile, center leaning coverage attributes the severity of the fires to the early arrival of the Extreme El Niño phenomenon, which has led to record temperatures and dry vegetation. Political reactions have varied, with some figures calling for urgent resources and immediate aid for affected residents.