Córdoba: major fire extinguished on Route 5 and passage reopened with detours and checkpoints

A large-scale fire broke out Wednesday night at a sawmill located on Route 5. The Provincial Fire Management Directorate confirmed that the fire was contained during the early hours of Thursday. Traffic was reopened this morning, although a speed reduction remains in place as a precaution.

The fire, near Villa del Prado, mobilized brigades from various localities such as Alta Gracia, Despeñaderos, and San Agustín. Containment efforts included tanker trucks and specialized personnel. The fire is circumscribed and cooling operations are being carried out in the area.

The fire started at night and multiple units replied

According to official sources, the fire started within the sawmill premises but was quickly surrounded by the operation. Units from Villa Ciudad de América, Potrero de Garay, and Río Segundo also participated in the deployment. The priority was to prevent the spread to nearby homes and grasslands.

Despite the magnitude of the event, no spread was reported outside the affected premises. The fire began in a wood storage area, although the exact cause of the incident is still unknown. During the early hours, the highway was partially closed as a preventive measure.

The Highway Police are conducting detours and controls on the stretch between Alta Gracia and Santa Ana. Drivers were asked to reduce speed when passing through the affected kilometer. It was also recommended to follow the instructions of personnel on site.

El fuego ya fue controlado y sofocado, reestableciéndose el transito en la zona.

Route open, but with active controls and precautions

Traffic on the Córdoba–Alta Gracia highway was restored with restrictions. The section with reduced speed is one kilometer (0.62 miles) long and is signposted. Slow traffic aims to ensure safety while work continues in the sawmill area.

The public highlighted the coordinated work between firefighters, police, and Civil Defense personnel. The units remain on site to prevent the reactivation of secondary fires. The situation is under control but under constant monitoring.

Authorities stress the need to drive with extreme caution. Smoke and work on the shoulder could affect visibility in some areas. It is recommended to stay informed through official channels and local media.