Massive Fire Engulfs Pamplona Alta in Lima, Leaving Hundreds Homeless
Fire Tears Through Hillside Community in San Juan de Miraflores
San Juan de Miraflores, Lima — A large fire broke out Saturday afternoon in the Pamplona Alta sector of San Juan de Miraflores, quickly spreading through a dense block of mostly improvised homes.
The blaze erupted with alarming speed, sending thick plumes of smoke over the southern districts of Lima and triggering panic among residents as flames jumped from one structure to another.
Local authorities moved to contain the blaze and emergency crews remain on scene as officials assess losses.
Dozens to Over 100 Homes Affected
Initial reports from local media and firefighters put the scale of the damage at anywhere from several dozen to more than 100 homes affected, while hundreds of residents have been left without shelter.
Families were seen fleeing with what little they could carry as firefighters battled the flames in narrow streets and steep terrain.
Authorities report the fire has been confined, though many families remain displaced and in urgent need of aid.
Highly Flammable Homes Fueled the Rapid Spread
Firefighters said the flames spread rapidly because many houses are built from highly flammable materials and are tightly packed together.
Wood, plastic, and corrugated metal roofing allowed the fire to race through the settlement, complicating containment efforts and increasing the risk to residents and first responders.
Suspected Fireworks Workshop May Have Intensified Blaze
Officials also indicated the blaze appeared to have reached a clandestine pyrotechnics (fireworks) workshop in the sector, which may have worsened the fire and produced small explosions captured in citizen videos.
The loud detonations added to fears among residents and firefighters alike, as burning debris was hurled into nearby homes.
Investigators are treating that location as a likely origin while the cause is formally determined.
Emergency Response Ongoing
Fire crews remain in the area monitoring hot spots and preventing flare-ups, while local officials coordinate temporary shelter, food, and basic supplies for displaced residents.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area as investigations continue.
