Fueled by intense summer heat, the fires have ripped through the coastal tourist region of Valparaiso, reaching temperatures of 40°C (104°F) over the weekend.

As of Sunday afternoon, authorities confirmed 99 bodies recovered, with 32 identified. President Boric, visiting the heavily affected Quilpue community, acknowledged the death toll will climb, potentially surpassing the 500 lives lost in the 2010 earthquake and tsunami.

The government has declared a state of emergency, pledging support for affected communities. Nearly 26,000 hectares have been scorched by the blazes, with over 1,400 firefighters, 1,300 military personnel, and volunteers battling the flames supported by 31 firefighting aircraft.

Weather conditions remain challenging, and a curfew has been imposed in affected areas. Authorities have evacuated thousands as the fires, fueled by El Niño-driven drought and heat, continue to rage. (ILKHA)