Forest fires in Colombia have scorched 1228 acres of land and crops since the turn of the year, as temperatures surpass 97 degrees Fahrenheit, reports EFE Friday.
The 16 fires have wreaked havoc in five departments, the most devastating occurring in the central district of Labranza Grande, Boyaca, where 740 acres of vegetation have been charred.
Colombia’s central departments have endured the worst of the forest fires, with 338 acres of rubber trees and natural vegetation being reduced to cinders in Orocue, Casanare.
The other affected areas were in the central regions of Cundinamarca and Meta, as well as the southern department of Caqueta.
The government has reminded people not to smoke in the forest and to camp only in authorized places, while taking extra care to extinguish camp fires completely before leaving the area.
Thus far no casualties have been reported.
