Woodland areas in the municipality of San Juan y Martínez, in Pinar del Río, woke up this Tuesday to the devastating impact of two wildfires, keeping the Forest Rangers and forestry workers in the western Cuban territory on high alert.
The first fire is located in the foothills, in an area known as Máquina Vieja, and has already affected approximately 120 hectares (ha) of young pine, acacia, eucalyptus, and other species. Meanwhile, the second fire has spread through Agua Dulce, covering between 110 and 115 ha of pine forests.
According to a Facebook post by Yamile Ramos Cordero, the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba in the area, efforts are being intensified to control the flames.
Although there is no danger to the population as the fires are far from communities, more than a hundred forest rangers, supported by heavy machinery for creating firebreaks, are working to encircle the fires and prevent their spread.
However, according to Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Pereda Burón, head of the Forest Rangers in Pinar del Río, "the fight against the blaze has been complicated by strong winds and the severe drought affecting the province," reported the official newspaper, Granma.
So far this year, the westernmost region of Cuba has recorded 73 forest fires, with an environmental and economic toll affecting nearly 800 ha of forests, primarily due to human negligence.
Just last April, the fire department managed to extinguish a similar incident in the mountainous areas of Viñales, which affected 350 ha. This was the first major wildfire recorded this year in Pinar del Río.
In 2024, several other large-scale forest fires have been reported in various provinces across the country.
One such fire broke out on a hill near the city of Santiago de Cuba, threatening homes in the nearby urban area and causing concern among residents.
In Santa Clara, Villa Clara, another fire devastated a forest area near the Los Caneyes Hotel, affecting electrical service in a circuit of the provincial capital.
In January, another significant wildfire consumed protected forest areas in the localities of Tres Fiebres in Moa and Alto de Cruzata in Yateras, both part of the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park in the provinces of Holguín and Guantánamo, respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pinar del Río Wildfires
The recent wildfires in Pinar del Río have raised many questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers.
How much area has been affected by the wildfires in Pinar del Río?
The wildfires have affected approximately 230 to 235 hectares, including areas in Máquina Vieja and Agua Dulce.
Is there a danger to the local population?
No, the fires are currently located far from communities, posing no immediate risk to residents.
What factors are complicating the efforts to control the wildfires?
Strong winds and severe drought conditions have made it difficult to control the spread of the fires.
What has been the primary cause of the forest fires in Pinar del Río?
Human negligence has been identified as the main factor contributing to the forest fires.