In Mexico, a staggering total of 120 active forest fires have been reported, wreaking havoc across 7,137 hectares of land in 19 different states, according to the Mexican government’s latest update on Wednesday.
The National Forestry Commission (Conafor) released a report indicating that the central state of Hidalgo is bearing the brunt of the devastation, with 1,874 hectares already consumed by the flames.
Conafor’s preliminary assessment highlighted the ongoing challenge of fires, with some areas still lacking estimates of the damage incurred.
Despite efforts, 42 fires have been successfully extinguished in recent days, but not before scorching approximately 2,608 hectares of land.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador addressed the crisis during his daily news briefing, revealing that over 6,000 personnel, including Mexican soldiers, marines, Civil Protection, and Conafor personnel, are actively engaged in firefighting operations to contain the blazes. He reassured the public that there is currently no imminent danger to communities posed by the fires.
However, the president mourned the loss of four individuals who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty while combating the fires. Among the deceased are two community members, a police officer, and a firefighter, underscoring the severity and risks associated with the ongoing crisis.
