Chilean president declares state of catastrophe as wildfires kill at least 18

Wildfires in central and southern Chile have killed at least 18 people and destroyed numerous homes and forests, prompting President Gabriel Boric to declare a state of catastrophe in the Biobío and Ñuble regions. The emergency declaration allows for greater military coordination to combat the blazes, which have scorched over 8,500 hectares and led to the evacuation of 50,000 people. Local officials have criticized the federal government's response time, citing a lack of immediate assistance as the fires spread rapidly. High temperatures exceeding 38C (100F) and strong winds are hindering firefighting efforts, with residents reporting being caught off guard by the sudden and intense flames. Charred bodies have been found in various locations, highlighting the devastating impact of the fires on local communities.