A wildfire that ignited on December 25, 2024, in Argentina’s Nahuel Huapi National Park has burned over 6,900 hectares of land. The fire, sparked by a thunderstorm, continues to challenge firefighters working to contain the flames. Authorities issued a caution on January 26, 2025, warning drivers in the area about reduced visibility due to smoke.
Nahuel Huapi National Park, the oldest and second-largest national park in Argentina, spans 2,750 square miles of diverse landscapes, from shimmering lakes to dense forests of red-barked arrayan trees. Popular among hikers and skiers, the park attracts visitors year-round with its extensive trail networks and winter sports opportunities.
A satellite image captured by Copernicus Sentinel-2 on January 29, 2025, reveals the burn scar left by the fire and the lingering smoke. Open data from Copernicus Sentinel satellites plays a vital role in monitoring wildfires worldwide, helping assess their environmental and societal impacts.
Featured image credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery