Firefighters in Guatemala are facing an alarming increase in forest fires amidst the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown. The necessary curfew measures, implemented to curb the spread of the virus, have inadvertently intensified the fire crisis.
Experienced firefighters Roger Agustin and Eddy Mansill highlight that the restrictions have led to a significant reduction in available volunteers and community support staff. This shortage has hampered firefighting efforts, making it more challenging to contain and extinguish the flames swiftly.
The surge in forest fires is causing severe damage to Guatemala's rich and diverse ecosystems. The loss of flora and fauna not only threatens biodiversity but also impacts the livelihoods of local communities dependent on these natural resources.
In addition to the immediate environmental damage, the prolonged fight against the fires during the pandemic poses health risks to the firefighting teams. The combination of increased workload and limited support exacerbates the strain on these frontline heroes.
Efforts are being made to address the situation by seeking additional resources and support from both national and international bodies. However, the challenge remains significant as the country strives to balance public health measures with environmental conservation.
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Guatemala firefighters battle increased forest fires amid COVID-19
cgtn.com
