Flames in the heart of Bogotá: El Niño fuels catastrophic fires on El Cable hill
The fires, fueled by invasive and highly flammable plant species like eucalyptus and pine, posed a significant challenge to the 805 people who worked tirelessly to control the flames.
- 4 weeks ago
April 4, 2024
Firefighter battling the wildfires at El Cable Hill in Colombia | Photo courtesy of David Camilo Plazas Vargas
BOGOTA, Colombia ꟷ The devastating wildfires on El Cable Hill were emblematic of the broader climate crisis in Colombia. As a result, the country experienced its hottest January in three decades due to the El Niño weather pattern. This phenomenon, coupled with dry conditions, led to widespread fires, prompting a national disaster declaration by the government. The situation needed international aid to support firefighting efforts across the country. Over 17,000 hectares had been consumed by fire.
In Bogotá, the capital, smoke severely deteriorated air quality, affecting the health of residents, some of whom needed medical care. The fires, fueled by invasive and highly flammable plant species like eucalyptus and pine, posed a significant challenge to the 805 people who worked tirelessly to control the flames. These species, which contain flammable oils and saps, helped the fire maintain its intensity over several days.
Above, photo shows firefighter entering uneven terrain on El Cable Hill, against a backdrop of a mountain obscured by haze from the fires.
Efforts to manage the crisis included a temporary suspension of flights at Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport, underscoring the fires’ impact on urban life and infrastructure.
The aftermath of the blaze captured with charred forest grounds contrasting the untouched greenery in the distance.
Two firefighters navigating a charred landscape on a steep slope. The earth is left scorched, with remnants of vegetation still smoldering, painting a picture of the wildfire’s devastation.
A lone firefighter stands in a smoldering landscape on El Cable Hill, surrounded by burnt trees.
A powerful image of the responders working within the heart of the fire-damaged forests of El Cable Hill.
Firefighters working amidst the devastation, with a sign indicating the area as a forest reserve. Their efforts emphasize the environmental regulations in place to protect these lands.
Further into the fire, firefighters face increased risks and environmental contamination due to smoke and hazardous materials.
Firefighters handling hoses and equipment near a red water tank. They are coordinating efforst to combat and extinguish the fires on El Cable Hill.
All photos courtesy of David Camilo Plazas Vargas
