The fire, which is believed to have been started by careless campers, fueled by the dry season conditions and high winds of this past week, was brought under control by fire brigades led by bomberos forestales (forest firefighters).

Authorities are also investigating the possibility of the fire being set intentionally by criminal organization common in the area to camouflage their illegal drug operations.

Currently, continuing is only 200 metres of open fire burning cane in the sector of Chiripa - La Piedra.

Over 100 volunteers are still in place working together with Bomberos to maintain control of the fire.

Helicopters on the scene, one from Guatemala's air force, have been grounded due to strong winds reaching speeds of excess of 60km/h.

It is expected by this afternoon the winds will die down enough for the helicopters to take off and dump water over the areas were the fire continues.

In March this year, forest fires have increased 110% as compared to last year.

For such, MINAET authorities are asking the population to take all the necessary care to prevent forest fires, especially in performing controlled burns.

Controlled burns are common especially in areas of sugar cane plantations.