Rapa Nui, October 9, 2024 – The Ma’u Henua Indigenous Community informs the local community and authorities about the current status of the forest fire that affected the area in front of Papa Vaka yesterday afternoon. Since the start of the fire, Ma’u Henua personnel have been working in collaboration with the Provincial Presidential Delegation, BRIPA Rapa Nui, and the Fire Department to control the situation.

The fire, exacerbated by the island’s weather conditions, initially affected approximately 25 hectares of grassland around 4:00 p.m. However, due to the rapid spread of the fire, the affected area reached 90 hectares in the following hours. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the emergency crews and the muto’i, most of the fire has been contained.

The Ma’u Henua Indigenous Community has provided additional support with a water tanker, supplying food, isotonic drinks, and extra personnel to directly assist those fighting the fire on the ground. At this time, the fire is under control and poses no risk of further spread. Nevertheless, it remains active, and the Community team has arranged for constant monitoring of the affected areas.

Early this morning, the damage to vegetation and the environmental impact on the affected areas are being assessed.

From Ma’u Henua, we will continue monitoring the situation and keep the community informed.