In brief
Heavy rains in Chile’s Coquimbo region have triggered catastrophic flooding and mudslides, prompting authorities to state a state of catastrophe and order mass evacuations. Local mayors report at least five fatalities, while national disaster agency Senapred reports over 99,000 people isolated and several missing. Historic rainfall, surpassing 200mm at Cerro Tololo, has inundated towns and displaced residents. President Jose Antonio Kast announced the state of catastrophe after evaluating the emergency, underscoring the scale of the disaster.
Flooding in Coquimbo
Chile’s Coquimbo region and the province of Huasco are under a state of catastrophe after a sudden downpour triggered extensive flooding and mudslides.
Local officials report at least five deaths, while national disaster service Senapred has recorded more than 99,000 people isolated and several missing nationwide.
Meteorological data shows historic rainfall, with measurements exceeding 200mm at Cerro Tololo, marking one of the heaviest downpours recorded in the area.
President Jose Antonio Kast announced the emergency status, emphasizing the urgent need for relief and recovery efforts across the affected communities.
