Chile: Severe flooding in central, northern Chile

Event

Two people were found dead in Monte Patria (Coquimbo region) on Saturday, May 12, as torrential rains and major flooding have severely impacted the central and northern areas of the country. The government has placed the regions of Antofagasta, Atacama, and Coquimbo on red alert. The provinces of Antofagasta and El Loa, which are part of the Antofagasta region, are under a flood watch. The province of Chañaral, as well as the municipalities of Copiapó, Tierra Amarilla, and Alto del Carmen, in Atacama region have been declared disaster zones. Water and power shortages have also been reported in some towns located in the regions of Antofagasta, Coquimbo, and Atacama.

The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (Oficina Nacional de Emergencia del Ministerio del Interior, ONEMI) has reported that 120 people in Atacama region are severely affected, a total 1304 others have been temporarily resettled, and 3000 hectares of land have been damaged. Weather forecasts point to continued precipitation across central and northern Chile in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to maintain a safe distance from river banks, to monitor the situation via local media outlets, and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock you over. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water; all items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs disposed of.