The municipal authorities of Epuyén and El Hoyo, located in the northwest of Chubut province, today ordered the evacuation of residents and tourists due to the uncontrolled advance of flames in both localities. At the same time, traffic on National Route 40 was restricted. The fire, which originated in the Puerto Patriada area, now threatens populated areas due to sudden changes in wind direction. Therefore, the municipalities of Epuyén and El Hoyo, in coordination, have ordered the orderly evacuation of neighbors and tourists, prioritizing safety in case of a possible advance of the flames: 'Remain calm and follow the instructions,' officials requested amidst the emergency. So far, no injuries have been reported, according to Noticias Argentinas agency, while firefighters continued to work tonight to try to contain the fire. Meanwhile, National Viality (VN) reported that it has completely restricted traffic between Epuyén and El Hoyo, as the flames are near the roadway, while trucks cannot circulate between Bariloche and El Bolsón, as there is a large number of large vehicles involved in the operation. Meanwhile, from Chile, the National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Senapred) confirmed a focus near the Alto Bio Bio National Reserve, located about 60 kilometers from the Pino Hachado Pass, in Neuquén, which activated the alert in that province.
