Several hotspots of the wildfire that began in the touristic area of Puerto Patriada, Chubut, in the Patagonia region, reignited on Monday due to the heat and dry weather. Almost 15,000 hectares of native forest and implanted vegetation have been consumed since the fires began on January 5. This means that, although there are still active hotspots, firefighters have been able to make a barrier around the fire’s perimeter to stop it from spreading further. The wildfire began on January 5 in Puerto Patriada, near the Epuyén lake, and spread to surrounding areas, affecting vegetation, animals and at least 20 homes. One man was arrested on Monday, accused of attempting to start a fire, although it remains unclear how the fires began on Saturday.

Source: Bueno Aires Herald January 20, 2026 14:53 UTC