Deadly flames could become Chile's 'new normal,' scientists warn
Central Chile's devastating February wildfires – which claimed 133 lives and left neighborhoods in ashes – offer a grim preview of climate-driven disasters to come, according to a new World Weather Attribution study. 🔬 The blazes near Viña del Mar and Valparaiso mark the country's deadliest natural disaster since 2010's magnitude-8.8 earthquake.
🔥 The Climate Connection
While current coastal cooling trends temporarily offset global warming's effects, researchers warn that rising temperatures will supercharge fire risks. At 2°C warming (projected by 2100 under current climate pledges), extreme fire conditions could become twice as likely. 🌡️ \"We expect a lot of these fires to happen in the future,\" said Imperial College London's Joyce Kimutai.
🏙️ Urban Sprawl Meets Flammable Landscapes
The report highlights human factors amplifying disasters: expanding pine/eucalyptus farms replaced natural firebreaks, while cities creep into wildfire zones. 🚧 \"The most devastating fires happened where urban planning failed to address risks,\" noted Red Cross advisor Mauricio Santos.
🚨 A Call to Action
Experts urge Chile to invest in early warning systems, fire-resistant infrastructure, and smarter land management. As UN data shows temperatures could rise nearly 3°C this century, the clock is ticking to protect vulnerable communities. ⏳
