Yucatán wildfires destroy 1,100+ hectares of forest

Yucatán leads the list of states most affected by wildfires in the Peninsula, with more than 1,100 hectares of vegetation damaged so far this year, according to the National Forestry Commission (Conafor). Currently, firefighters are battling a blaze in Tixkokob, which has already scorched 306 hectares and is 70% contained. Another fire in Maxcanú has preliminarily affected 260 hectares.

Additional Fires Across the Region

These incidents follow earlier wildfires in Tekax, Yaxkukul, Umán, Celestún, and Santa Elena. In total, Yucatán has recorded multiple fire outbreaks, surpassing Campeche (373 hectares) and Quintana Roo (350.5 hectares) in damage.

In Campeche, the most significant active fire is in Candelaria, with 90% containment and an estimated 50 hectares affected. Other recent incidents were reported in Hopelchén and Carmen. Meanwhile, Quintana Roo faces a fire in Lázaro Cárdenas, where 250 hectares have been burned, with only 30% containment. Additional fires have occurred in Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum.

Collectively, the Peninsula has lost 1,824.5 hectares to wildfires this year.

Record-Breaking Wildfire Figures

In 2023, Quintana Roo led with 64 wildfires and over 91,000 hectares affected, followed by Campeche (27,666 hectares) and Yucatán (20,000 hectares). Across the Peninsula, last year’s fires damaged 139,548 hectares, accounting for 8.3% of the national total.

Authorities continue coordinated efforts with Conafor brigades and other agencies, but rising temperatures have increased the risk of further wildfires in the region.