A wildfire hotspot in Epuyén, the area most affected by the flames in Chubut, has reignited as firefighters struggle to contain the situation that has been affecting several parts of Patagonia in southern Argentina for days.

The most damaged areas so far are Epuyén and the Los Alerces National Park. 13,600 hectares have been lost to the blaze there, according to information from the Provincial Fire Management Service. Over 600 people are working to stop the fires.

Over 20 houses, a ranch and two hotels have been burned down since the wildfires began on January 5. Two people have been reported seriously injured: a firefighter, who remains hospitalized with over half of his body burned, and a man who lives in the area and was helping as a volunteer. The latter is currently under intensive care with burns on 20% of his body.

On Tuesday, a hotspot that had previously been contained in El Pedregoso, near Epuyén, reignited despite the fact that rainfalls on Sunday had brought some relief to firefighters. 

The situation worries local authorities, as strong winds and dry weather create the perfect conditions for flames to ignite. “This is one of the most aggressive fires in the history of the province,” said Chubut Governor Ignacio Torres during an........

© Buenos Aires Herald