Devastating fires in La Libertad are ravaging hectares and threatening communities.

The recent wildfires in the La Libertad region have left a deep mark of destruction, with over 1,000 hectares of vegetation devastated, affecting not only the environment but also the lives and livelihoods of local communities. The news has shaken the inhabitants of the provinces of Santiago de Chuco and Sánchez Carrión, who have experienced the consequences of this natural disaster firsthand. The Regional Emergency Operations Center (COER) of La Libertad reported that the first fire broke out on September 4 in the La Yeguada sector, in the district of Mollepata. As it spread, the fire moved towards areas such as Huamanbul, Huachenga, and Miraflores in the province of Sánchez Carrión, leaving a trail of destruction that includes eucalyptus forests and crops of barley and wheat. This situation is not only alarming from an environmental standpoint but has also had a direct impact on the local economy by destroying food sources and livelihoods. The initial efforts to combat the fire were led by local residents, who, along with technicians from the municipalities, did their best to extinguish the flames. However, the conditions of the fire exceeded their response capacity, prompting authorities to deploy water tankers from the regional government. After a hard-fought effort, the fire was brought under control on September 7, but not before leaving a devastating toll: six homes affected and several heads of livestock lost. Although the flames have been extinguished, the risk of reactivation remains. According to forecasts from the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (Senmahi), conditions are expected that could favor new outbreaks of fires in the region. This highlights the need to implement preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of such destructive episodes. COER has called on local farmers, urging them to refrain from setting fires to clear land. The common practice of burning agricultural waste has contributed to the spread of fires, and it is vital for the community to be aware of the consequences that such actions can have. In a similar context, another fire that occurred in the Colpa Yanasarina populated center, in the district of Huamachuco, was controlled after two days of hard work. Although this incident was less devastating, it affected three hectares of pasture and a home inhabited by an elderly couple. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident underscores the vulnerability of the population to these disasters. The response of the authorities has been key in containing the fires, but the role of the community is equally crucial. Collaboration between residents and institutions is essential to face these challenges and reduce the risks of future disasters. Environmental education and the promotion of sustainable practices are urgent to maintain the integrity of natural resources in the region. In addition to the loss of vegetation and livestock, wildfires also affect air quality and the health of the inhabitants. The suspended particles generated by smoke can cause respiratory issues and exacerbate pre-existing conditions. Thus, the issue becomes even more complex, as it involves not only the loss of resources but also the physical well-being of the community. As La Libertad confronts this crisis, it is crucial to establish more effective policies for fire prevention and management. Raising public awareness about the importance of environmental protection must be a priority, as well as strengthening resources and capacities for disaster response. Only through a joint effort can the impact of these fires be mitigated and the invaluable natural heritage that the region has to offer be protected.