Central Colombia forest fire threatens tourist town of Villa de Leyva
Summary
A large wildfire is burning near the tourist town of Villa de Leyva in central Colombia, threatening the area and its forests. Authorities are using planes, helicopters, and firefighters to fight the fire, which has been worsened by a dry season due to a strong El Nino weather event combined with climate change.Key Facts
- The wildfire is in the Boyaca region near Villa de Leyva, a popular tourist town known for its colonial buildings.
- The fire has burned 40 hectares (about 99 acres) of native forest so far.
- Smoke from the fire can be seen from the town’s main square.
- Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella promised to send state resources to fight the fire.
- Efforts to control the fire include two planes, a military helicopter, and firefighters from Bogota and surrounding areas.
- The dry season in the Andes, worsened by a strong El Nino weather pattern, has increased the risk of wildfires this year.
- El Nino causes extreme weather by changing rain and temperature patterns, leading to droughts in northern South America.
- Climate change is making the effects of El Nino more severe, increasing heat, drought, and fire risks.
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