Forest fire threatens tourist town in Colombian Andes

A forest fire ignited in central Colombia near the popular tourist destination of Villa de Leyva on Sunday, posing a significant threat to the town's infrastructure and the safety of its residents. The blaze was visible from the central square, renowned for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, which draws more than a million visitors annually.

Local official José Castro reported that the fire had scorched more than 200 hectares, a fourfold increase from the initial estimate. As of Sunday afternoon, approximately 250 firefighters and residents were actively battling the inferno, which began in a nearby forest on Saturday. The Colombian government's Disaster Risk Management agency stated that the blaze was 50% contained by that time.

Environment Minister Fabio Arjona hinted at the possibility of the fire being intentionally set. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella pledged to deploy all available state resources to combat the fire and safeguard the town's inhabitants, heritage, and natural resources. In response to the crisis, Villa de Leyva declared a state of public calamity, suspending classes in local schools and prompting Mayor Nicolás Méndez to express frustration over the overwhelmed resources, appealing for urgent assistance from national authorities.

Hotel manager Eliana Suárez recounted the evacuation of around 20 guests as the flames advanced toward the hotel, ultimately reaching the roofs of some country cabins. Despite the efforts of over 200 local firefighters, residents, and military helicopters, the fire remains a formidable challenge. Dry, hot conditions exacerbated by the current El Niño weather pattern have intensified the risk of wildfires across Colombia, with about 18 active fires reported in the country at present.