Fire
Chile wildfires
Chile
Feb 2024
Primary Contact
Roberto Linderman
T: +56 2 26769320
E: rlinderman@crawford-gml.cl
Overview
Crawford's response to wildfires impacting central Chile
In recent days, Chile has confronted an unprecedented surge of wildfires, predominantly affecting the central & south zones of the country. Fueled by adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and dry vegetation, these fires significantly threaten rural and urban areas.
Government officials have deemed the weekend blazes the deadliest fire event in Chile's history. Battling fires amid an intense summer heat wave, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), has presented complex conditions.
Our dedicated CAT team in Chile actively provides around-the-clock claims intake services to assist insurers, brokers, and all our clients. We are well-positioned to deliver emergency response during this unparalleled wildfire crisis.
If you require further information on our response or need adjusting assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
Spanish translation available here.
Additional Contacts
Fernando Varas
T: + 56 9 92445367
E: fvaras@crawford.cl
Updates
Feb 05, 2024
The popular tourist region of Valparaíso in Chile has reported at least 112 casualties due to the wildfires, with concerns that the death toll may rise. Government officials state that 188 fires have been raging for days at various locations across the country, destroying more than 3,000 houses in the Valparaiso region.
As of February 4, 2024, nearly 26,000 hectares (64,000 acres) have been burned across central and southern regions. Multiple areas are currently grappling with a heatwave.
Crawford Chile has activated the CAT plan and diligently prepares the resources to assess the damage. We maintain ample capacity to assist our clients in all affected regions.
We encourage those impacted to submit their claims online or contact our team.
Feb 04, 2024
On Sunday, the Chilean team activated the CAT plan, prioritizing the safety of all employees and their families. Full capacity is maintained to attend to our clients.
Officials have extended curfews in heavily affected cities: Viña del Mar, Quilpué and Villa Alemana to prevent looting.
The fires, intensified by a summer heatwave and drought linked to the El Niño weather phenomenon, are a stark reminder of the increased risk of natural disasters on a warming planet.
Crawford Chile is steadfast in its commitment to assisting the affected communities and navigating this challenging situation.