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Olga LucĂ­a Alfonso reports forest fires in Tolima have decreased to six active conflagrations following recent rains.

The department of Tolima is experiencing a significant reduction in forest fires, with the number of active conflagrations dropping to six after a period of intense heat and a 7.4 magnitude earthquake. Olga LucĂ­a Alfonso, Director of Cortolima Corporation, noted that recent rains helped improve the situation, which has already affected over 8,500 hectares across 16 municipalities. Alfonso emphasized that most fires were caused by human action and reminded the public that controlled burns were prohibited since late May. The Tolima Government declared a public calamity on August 14 to mobilize resources and address the infrastructure damage caused by both the earthquake and the fires. Local officials, including San Luis Mayor Ricardo Acosta and Ortega Mayor Diego Matiz, warned that the total affected area may be larger than initial reports suggest. Diego Matiz noted that the fires have significantly impacted livestock and crops in Ortega. The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to receive a full inventory of the damage to request national government aid for local farmers and ranchers.

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