Chile declares state of disaster after heavy rains

Chile has declared a state of emergency following severe storms and heavy rainfall that have caused widespread disruption in northern regions. President José Antonio Kast announced the activation of the constitutional exception state today after conditions in the Coquimbo region and the Huasco province worsened. Speaking before the press, Kast stated that the decision was made due to the deteriorating situation. The intense rain has rendered roads impassable and cut off more than 100,000 people from the outside world. The storm began mid-July and primarily affected the northern areas of Coquimbo and Atacama, where heavy precipitation is rare. According to government reports, five people died as a result of the downpours, with four others still missing. Over 1,100 homes were damaged, and more than 2,200 individuals, mainly due to injuries or property damage, were directly impacted by the storm. The government released these figures as part of its ongoing assessment of the disaster's scale. Interior Minister Maximiliano Pavez described the rainfall as “unusual and extreme,” noting that within just one hour, the amount of rain that typically falls over a month was recorded. This level of precipitation is considered highly abnormal for the region. The Energy Ministry shared on social media that approximately 150,000 people nationwide remain without electricity. In Coquimbo, flooding, mudslides, and power outages disrupted the supply of drinking water. Due to large waves and wind speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour, dozens of harbors across the country temporarily restricted operations last week. The National Weather Service noted that such extensive storms with this intensity have not been observed in Chile for decades. These conditions have led to significant challenges for local authorities trying to manage the crisis. Emergency services have been working around the clock to assist residents stranded by flooded roads and to provide aid to those affected by the storm. Rescue teams have been deployed to search for the four missing persons, while medical personnel are treating injured individuals. Local governments have issued warnings urging caution as the weather continues to pose risks. Authorities are also focusing on restoring essential services, including electricity and clean water, to affected communities. Infrastructure assessments are underway to determine the extent of damage to roads, bridges, and public buildings. The government has pledged support to those displaced by the storm, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts among regional and national agencies. As the situation evolves, officials are monitoring weather forecasts to prepare for potential further impacts.