Wildfires threaten air quality and safety in Quito.

The situation in Quito has complicated in recent days due to forest fires that have devastated several areas of the capital, including Itulcachi, Nayón, and Chilibulo. Although Mariscal Sucre International Airport has managed to maintain normal operations, authorities are on alert for the possibility that the situation could change suddenly. Since September 5, 2024, the general manager of the Municipal Public Company Airport of Quito, Sebastián Nader, has assured that both the weather and visibility at the airport terminal are suitable for air traffic. On the other hand, the airport, operated by Corporación Quiport S.A., has reported through its official channels that, at this time, no inconveniences have been reported in operations. However, the situation in the city is delicate, as the fires have mobilized a considerable number of human and material resources. A total of 357 firefighters have been deployed in the area, supported by 254 vehicles and two helicopters. The intervention of two additional helicopters from the Armed Forces is expected to help control the fire hotspots. According to data from the Secretary of Environment, the air quality in Quito was maintained at moderate levels in the early hours of the day. This is due to favorable weather conditions, such as light winds that have allowed pollutants in the environment to disperse. However, authorities warn that this situation could change drastically if the fires are not contained and continue to spread to nearby areas. One of the most concerning hotspots is the smoke coming from the fire in Tumbaco, which is heading towards the Tababela area, where the airport is located. Although there is currently no significant impact on visibility, authorities remain on alert. A potential degradation of air quality could force the implementation of measures to safeguard public health and the safety of air operations. In light of this potential environmental crisis, the Secretary of Environment has issued recommendations to the population. A special call is made to the most vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, to take additional precautions. This includes wearing masks and the recommendation to stay indoors, especially during midday hours when pollution is expected to increase. The impact of these fires is not limited to air quality; it also affects citizens' perception of safety. Images of the fires and smoke have generated concern among the residents of Quito, who watch the flames consume wooded areas near their homes. The community has shown solidarity and willingness to collaborate in mitigation efforts but also demands quick and effective responses from the authorities. Forest fires have been a recurring concern in Ecuador, especially during the dry season. However, rising temperatures and reduced humidity are exacerbating the situation. Authorities are racing against time to control the fires before they spread further. In this context, the role of the media becomes crucial. Accurate and timely information is vital to keep the population informed about developments and safety recommendations. News about the status of the fires and their impact on public health is essential for citizens to make informed decisions. As efforts to contain the fires progress, collaboration between authorities, emergency services, and the community will be fundamental. Coordination in response tasks and the implementation of preventive strategies will be key to mitigating the impact of these fires in the Ecuadorian capital. The Quito community is united in the hope that these fires will be controlled soon and that air quality will return to normal.