The thick smoke hovering over the city is a grim reminder that the flames are still nearby. The devastating wildfires ravaging central and southern Chile show no signs of easing: they have already consumed about 450 square kilometers (170 square miles) of land and left at least 20 people dead, some 300 injured, tens of thousands evacuated, and an incalculable trail of destruction.
Some towns, like the small fishing village of Lirquén, are only just beginning to assess the impact, while others, just a few kilometers away, have watched helplessly as the fires advance, defying efforts by authorities, residents and firefighters.
