A forest fire that began in the district of María in Amazonas when farmers attempted to clear dry grassland is inching closer to the Chachapoyan archaeological site of Kuélap, strong winds helping to fan the flames.

Local Félix Paricahua informs Peruvian daily El Comercio that the fire has been raging for three days and has so far destroyed 340 hectares of fields growing wheat, potatoes and other items.

Three people have been injured attempting to put out the fires, fire-fighters don’t have enough water to adequately control the fire.

Tags: amazonas, chachapoyas, fire, firefighter, kuelap