Warehouse Fire Spreads to Grassland Near Santiago, Disrupting Traffic
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A large-scale fire erupted Wednesday afternoon in warehouses located in the Saint Bernardo commune, bordering Lo Espejo, in the Metropolitan Region of Chile, prompting evacuations and significant traffic disruptions.
A major fire broke out on December 31, 2025, affecting multiple warehouses and quickly spreading to the surrounding grassland. The blaze, which originated near the intersection of Camino San Esteban and Avenida Lo Espejo, generated a substantial column of smoke visible across a wide area.
Firefighters Battle Expanding Flames
Firefighters and volunteer crews are currently on scene working to contain the rapidly spreading flames. According to reports, the fire poses a continued threat of expansion, fueled by dry conditions and potentially flammable materials stored within the affected warehouses.All workers at the site have been safely evacuated, and as of this reporting, no injuries have been confirmed.
Cause of Fire Remains Unknown
The origin of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released information regarding the circumstances that led to the outbreak,nor have they disclosed the specific contents of the warehouses,which are known to belong to several retail companies.
Traffic Restrictions and Air Quality Concerns
Due to the ongoing emergency, significant traffic restrictions have been implemented on camino San Esteban at Avenida Lo Espejo.Authorities are diverting traffic and urging motorists to avoid the area. Furthermore, a substantial amount of smoke is drifting towards Route 5, prompting officials to advise drivers to avoid travel in the surrounding perimeter.
The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as they become available.
