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Dramatic pictures show Chilean firefighters battling devastating forest fires that are ravaging woodland and vineyards

Fire crews have been battling numerous woodland fires that have hit the wine-producing region of Maule

CHILEAN firefighters are continuing to tackle a series of devastating forest fires that are sweeping the country.

Fire crews have been battling numerous woodland fires that have hit the wine-producing region of Maule, Cauquenes.

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Chilean firefighters are working hard to try and get the numerous forest fires in the Maule Region under controlCredit: EPA
Fire crews have been battling the forest wildfires that are reportedly spreading at a rate of 4,200 metres per hourCredit: EPA
Firefighters carry the body of one of the three men killed while tackling the raging infernoCredit: Reuters

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At least three firefighters have reportedly been killed while tackling the blazing infernos with the woodland fires spreading at a speed of 4,200 metres per hour.

Local reports suggest Pumanque, Marchigüe, Santa Cruz, Palmilla, Peralillo, Rengo and Malloa are the worst affected areas.

Pablo Stephanio, CONAF regional director, said: "The region has five forest fires ongoing at the moment."

He added that two fires in Pumanque and Paredones have engulfed each other, creating one gigantic blaze.
The fires broke out earlier this month following an "incredibly hot summer", with prolonged drought and erratic winds whipping up a perfect storm for wildfires.

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: "A month ago two fires passed really close to our vineyards – just 20 metres away.

"‘We have had lots of fires this summer in Colchagua and Chile in general.

"You have to be really careful, and be organised between neighbours to help each other protect the vineyards."

Volunteer firefighters have now been deployed alongside the national forest corporation, CONAF, in a bid to get the raging infernos under control.

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