Forest fire threatens tourist town in Colombian Andes

A massive forest fire was burning Sunday in central Colombia near the popular tourist town of Villa de Leyva, officials said.

The flames were visible from the central square of the Andean town, known for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, which attracts more than a million tourists each year.

AFP journalists saw firefighters and local residents battling the fire, which is still burning.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella posted on X: "We will deploy all state resources to fight this fire and protect its inhabitants, its heritage, and its natural wealth."

The government of the Boyaca department, where Villa de Leyva is located, said it was deploying two aircraft to combat the flames. It said 40 hectares of forest have been affected.

A military helicopter will also join the effort, along with firefighters from the capital, Bogota, Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara said.

Forest fires are common during the dry season in the Andean region near the equator, but conditions have been intensified during the current El Nino weather pattern which is bringing drought and high temperatures.

There are about 18 active forest fires Colombia, according to the latest official data.