Argentina Wildfires: More Than $240 Million in Losses From Fires Burning Farms, Wildlife
Light rains in Argentina that started over the weekend were anticipated to help firefighters put out raging wildfires that have damaged farmlands, wildlife, and plants in the country's north, including the Ibera National Park, an important wetland area.
According to officials, eight separate fires in the province of Corrientes in northeastern Argentina have already devastated almost 800,000 hectares (1.98 million acres).
Al Jazeera reported that the thick smoke turned the day to look like night as flames destroyed roughly 30,000 hectares (74,130 acres) per day, consuming up to 9 percent of an agriculturally-dependent region.
Strong Winds, Drought Fueled' Historic' Argentina Wildfires
Local resident Jorge Ayala described the incident as "atypical" and "historic," since this has never happened in the province before. The flames, which began in mid-January, were reportedly fueled by strong winds, low humidity, and dryness from drought.
According to forecasters, light rains that began falling on Sunday were expected to continue throughout the week, offering a prospect of relief to a region that has suffered drought and extreme heat. The mainly rural province of farms, ranches, and forests that borders Paraguay typically sees abundant rain.
Luis Candia was among the residents who assisted firefighters in putting out the wildfires in Corrientes. Carrying a water pack on his back and covering his face to protect him from the smoke and flames, he told Reuters that the region was fighting for its future.
"There is a lot of loss of animals, the issue of flora and fauna. On top of that, this was our source of work. If we lose this, what will become of us tomorrow?" he noted.
For weeks, firefighters, police, and volunteers have been trying to put out the fires, which have erupted during a drought connected to the La Niña climate phenomena as global temperatures have climbed.
Authorities Estimate Losses to More Than 26 Billion Argentine Pesos
Images from the scene show large burnt fields, smoldering tree roots, animals lifeless or fleeing the fire, and tired firefighters. Firefighting units have begun to arrive from all corners of Argentina: Brazil and Bolivia.
Authorities estimate that the province has already lost more than 26 billion Argentine pesos (more than $240 million), and experts warn it will take years to recover. Due to shortfalls of rain this year, Argentina has reduced its beef exports.
In the Ibera National Park, the fires have affected diverse wildlife, including threatened animals such as marsh deer, alligators, and more than 380 species of birds.
Artists and public figures have launched fundraising campaigns for the victims while donations for basic necessities pour in.
According to volunteer Laura Nez, people are bringing fruit, water, and ice, and the donors are getting everything possible while Nez's team focuses on the fire and tries to help. The firefighters cheered because of the light rain.
Volunteer Estefanía Riveiro, who was carrying buckets of water to help the animals, said the rainfall was a "blessing from God" and "God took pity on" them.
Last month, U.S. government scientists reported that 2021 was the sixth-warmest year on record and blamed climate change for it.
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Written by: Jess Smith
WATCH: Argentina Wildfires: Corrientes Declared 'Ecological and Environmental Disaster Zone' - From NBC News Australia