Argentina - Wildfires, update (JRC GWIS, IFRC, media, Government of Chubut province) (ECHO Daily Flash of 13 January 2026)

Since 5 January 2026, several wildfires have been affecting the Patagonia region (mostly Chubut province, next to Neuquen province), southern Argentina, resulting in evacuations and destruction.

As of 13 January, the JRC Global Wildfire Information System (GWIS) reports of 50,120 hectares burnt across Patagonia. Sustained drought and strong winds, compounded by heavy smoke reducing visibility, are hindering aerial operations and firefighting efforts.

Media, as of 12 January, reports one injured person, while 3 000 people were evacuated from Puerto Patriada, El Hoyo city, and 15 families from Epuyén municipality, Chubut province. More than ten houses were destroyed and additional 14 damaged.

Media also report that 581 people (firefighters and supporting personnel) are deployed, next to eight aircraft.

Over the next 48 hours, according to the JRC GWIS, the fire danger forecast remains from moderate to (predominantly) very extreme over large parts of Patagonia, including from Chubut to Santa Cruz province in the south, as well as Rio Negro and in Neuquen province.