Corrientes, Argentina, March 2022

In March 2022, I travelled once again to Argentina, this time to assess the impact of the devastating wildfires in the Gran Chaco region. After a transfer in Buenos Aires, I continued my journey to Resistencia, Corrientes, San Miguel (Corrientes), Posadas, Cerro Corá, and Departamento Candelaria, where I met with affected communities, local authorities, civil protection teams, and partner organisations.

The Fires in Argentina – A 2022 Environmental Catastrophe

The 2022 wildfires in Argentina were among the worst in recent history, primarily affecting the northern provinces. The fires were particularly severe in the Gran Chaco, a vast and ecologically rich region spanning Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Brazil.

The main causes of the fires were:
• Extreme drought – The region had been suffering from prolonged dry conditions, making forests and grasslands highly flammable.
• Uncontrolled agricultural burns – Farmers often use fire to clear land, but in such dry conditions, the flames quickly spread beyond control.
• Climate change – Rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns intensified the fire risk, leading to more frequent and severe wildfires.

The fires consumed hundreds of thousands of hectares, destroying:
• Forests and grasslands, crucial for biodiversity and local ecosystems.
• Homes and agricultural lands, displacing entire communities.
• Livelihoods of farmers and Indigenous groups, who rely on traditional farming and cattle ranching.

On the Ground – Visiting Affected Communities

During my field visit, I met with:
• Local authorities and civil protection teams, who were still struggling to contain residual fires and monitor hotspots.
• Partner organisations, working to provide relief to displaced families.
• Indigenous and rural communities, who faced severe losses of crops, livestock, and natural resources.

The destruction was staggering—entire areas reduced to ashes, people left without homes, and livestock lost in the flames. But beyond the damage, what struck me most was the resilience of the people, determined to rebuild despite the immense hardship.

Returning to Buenos Aires – Then Onward to Paraguay

After completing my assessment in the north of Argentina, I returned to Buenos Aires to catch my flight to Asunción, where I continued my mission.

A Disaster That Calls for Long-Term Action

The 2022 fires in Gran Chaco were a stark reminder of the growing threat of climate change and environmental mismanagement. The crisis did not end with the flames being extinguished—recovery, reforestation, and stronger disaster preparedness measures were essential to prevent future catastrophes.

Argentina, with its vast landscapes and rich ecosystems, faces serious environmental challenges, and this mission reinforced the urgency of supporting sustainable recovery efforts in the region.

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