Hopes of having the forest fire affecting the Baoruco Range National Park under control by today may be dashed by strong winds, drought conditions and difficult accessibility. Brigades from Barahona and Pedernales have been working on defence lines since Sunday with more firefighters from San Juan, Duverge and Azua joining the effort on Monday. While they have not yet determined the cause or size of the area affected, the fire is not considered to currently pose any threat to human population.

The drought currently affecting the country is predicted to possibly last until the end of next month with temperatures increasing slightly.

The Baoruco Range National Park is located in the southwest of the country covering the provinces of Barahona, Pedernales and Independencia. It's highest peak is 2367 meters and it is home to 26 of the Dominican Republic's 27 endemic bird species.