(CNN Spanish) — Guatemala's Council of Ministers declared a 30-day state of calamity due to the wind damage caused by the fires across the country this Wednesday, President Bernardo Arevalo told a press conference.
The measure seeks to make available all the necessary resources to contain fires and prevent their effects, which pose a health risk due to poor air quality.
According to the government, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) reports that most of the fires are arson, which is why they have already filed their respective complaints so that these incidents can be investigated.
As of this Monday, La Conred reports that there are 44 forest fires attended by 1,300 agents.
“Agua and Tajumulco volcanoes, AMSA territory, Laguna del Tigre National Park, Huhutenango in Peton, 80 percent have occurred,” explained Arevalo.
The president said the disaster declaration would allow the fire brigades to purchase supplies and request international assistance via flights to put out the fire as soon as possible.
They recommend using masks
Because of the fires, the Guatemalan Ministry of Health recommended that people stay in their homes and wear masks if they go out, especially in areas near areas where there are active fires.
They also recommend protecting the most vulnerable populations. “Children, the elderly, people with immunocompromised or chronic illnesses, patients recovering from cancer,” Health Minister Oscar Gordon said.
Suspended classes
Due to environmental conditions, the country's most populous Guatemalan, Esquintla and Zacatepequez departments have decided to suspend classes until further notice, officials said.
Education officials said they are working on distance learning programs that could be implemented if the suspension of classes continues.
