Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on Saturday a state of emergency in the Ñuble and Maule regions due to the risk of wildfires.

The measures aim to protect forests, and homes, and save lives, with a curfew imposed to address potential criminal activities.

Boric emphasized that those involved in starting wildfires will face penalties of up to 20 years in prison.

Authorities report about 15 active wildfires, with over 60 individuals arrested in the Araucanía region.
The country faced a tragedy last year, with dozens killed and over a thousand homes destroyed by wildfires.