Mayor of La Serena claims that in the commune there are seven people missing by frontal system

The mayor of La Serena, Daniela Norambuena, announced Monday morning that seven individuals have gone missing in the commune due to flash floods and landslides impacting the city in the Coquimbo region. The incident occurred following heavy rainfall that triggered sudden water flows and sediment movement, disrupting infrastructure and isolating parts of the town. The mayor stated that nearly 80 residents remain stranded, with seven confirmed missing, though additional individuals whose whereabouts are unknown were also noted. Norambuena emphasized the severity of the situation, describing it as a catastrophe rather than a mere emergency. She called upon the national government to declare a disaster zone, which would allow military forces to assist in rescue operations and search efforts for the missing persons. In her statement, Norambuena highlighted the critical need for external support, noting that local firefighters, who serve as rescuers, are themselves trapped and have issued distress calls. She described the current conditions as dire, stressing that the community is effectively cut off from essential services. The main road, Route 41, has been rendered impassable, further complicating relief efforts. According to reports from the National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Senapred), an avalanche struck the area of Pueblo Islón during the early hours of Monday. Residents in this high-altitude section of the commune were ordered to evacuate as floodwaters surged down the slopes, carrying debris and soil into the coastal areas. Social media posts shared images of the affected homes, raising concerns among locals about their safety. Local authorities have been working tirelessly under challenging conditions, coordinating with emergency services to manage the crisis. However, the lack of access to key roads and the ongoing risk posed by unstable terrain continue to hinder comprehensive response efforts. The mayor’s appeal for state intervention underscores the limitations of municipal resources in handling such large-scale disasters. Residents in the impacted zones have expressed fear and uncertainty, particularly regarding the fate of those still missing. While some families have managed to reach higher ground or secure temporary shelter, others remain in precarious situations. Community leaders have urged patience and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of collective action in overcoming these challenges. As the situation evolves, officials are monitoring weather forecasts and assessing the potential for further flooding. The continued rain poses a threat to both existing damage and future stability in the region. Emergency teams are preparing for extended operations, focusing on both immediate rescue missions and long-term recovery planning. The coming days will likely determine how quickly aid can be mobilized and how effectively the community can begin rebuilding its resilience against such natural threats.