At least 300 homes reported damaged or destroyed in major fire

A massive fire tore through a densely populated hillside neighborhood in San Juan de Miraflores, south of Lima, on Saturday afternoon, reducing entire blocks to ashes and forcing hundreds of families to flee with little more than what they could carry. Authorities estimate that at least 300 homes were damaged or destroyed, making it one of the district’s most devastating residential fires in recent years.

The blaze broke out in the Pamplona Alta area, known for its steep terrain and closely packed, largely improvised housing. What began as a small fire quickly escalated, fueled by strong winds, dry conditions, and highly flammable building materials. Flames spread rapidly from roof to roof through narrow pathways that made access difficult for emergency crews.

Residents described scenes of panic as thick smoke filled the sky and explosions echoed throughout the neighborhood. Many families had only minutes to escape, grabbing children, pets, and a few belongings before their homes were engulfed.

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