A normal Saturday in San Juan de Miraflores, Lima turned catastrophic when a fast-moving fire tore through the Pamplona Alta area, destroying dozens—possibly over 100—closely packed homes and leaving hundreds homeless.
Built from flammable materials and tightly spaced, the settlement allowed flames to spread rapidly while limiting firefighter access. Explosions caught on video suggest the fire may have involved an illegal fireworks workshop, worsening the blaze.
Now, with the fire largely contained, attention has shifted to relief efforts. Displaced families urgently need shelter, food, and basic supplies after losing everything. The disaster highlights the dangers of informal housing and the severe impact a single fire can have on vulnerable communities.