SANTIAGO, Chile - The aftermath of the devastating wildfires that swept through central Chile over the past few days has left a trail of destruction, with the death toll rising to 122 and hundreds of people still missing. The fires, which started on the eastern edge of the city of Viña del Mar, have caused extensive damage to several towns in the Valparaiso region, including Quilpe and Villa Alemana.

Volunteers in central Chile have rallied together to assist in the cleanup efforts, as they tirelessly work to remove charred metal, broken glass, and other debris from the devastated neighborhoods. It is a race against time as the fires have significantly diminished since Monday morning, allowing rescue teams and residents to assess the damage.

President Gabriel Boric declared that at least 3,000 homes have been destroyed, leaving many families without shelter. The scale of the devastation is immense, with Viña del Mar's Mayor Macarena Ripamonti reporting at least 370 people missing in the city of approximately 300,000 residents.

The fires ravaged neighborhoods that were precariously built on the mountains east of Viña del Mar, which is a popular beach resort. Schools, public buildings, and even the capital city of Santiago have become temporary depots where donations of water, food, candles, and shovels are being collected for the victims of the fires.

In a distressing update, the death toll rose by an additional 10 victims on Monday afternoon, bringing the total to 122, as confirmed by Marisol Prado, the director of Chile's Forensic Medical Service. The search for the missing continues, with authorities and rescue crews working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide aid to those in need.

As the affected communities try to rebuild and recover, the residents who have been displaced by the fires are facing additional challenges. Many have chosen to return to their homes, despite the destruction, to search for any remaining belongings and to deter potential looters. The fear of losing what little is left, or having their land claimed, drives these individuals to brave the devastating aftermath.

Police have urged unaffected residents to stay at home to allow for easier movement of rescue crews throughout the affected areas. The solidarity and resilience of the Chilean people are evident as they work together to overcome the catastrophic consequences of these wildfires.

The scars left by the wildfires will take time to heal, and the road to recovery will be long and challenging. However, with the support and determination of volunteers, officials, and the entire community, there is hope for the affected regions to rebuild and emerge stronger from this tragedy.