Senapred extends red alert to the entire Coquimbo region by frontal system

Authorities in Chile’s Region of Coquimbo have expanded a red-level weather alert to cover the entire area due to an approaching frontal system, according to Senapred, the National Emergency Secretariat. The upgrade was announced on July 18, 2026, following coordination with the Regional Presidential Office of Coquimbo and based on warnings issued by Chile's Meteorological Directorate (DMC) and other technical agencies. The red alert has been in effect since July 17 and will remain active until conditions improve. Additionally, Senapred canceled a yellow-level warning previously in place for the Elqui province due to the same weather event. The decision comes amid ongoing severe weather affecting the region, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, snowfall in mountainous areas, and potential thunderstorms. According to the DMC, intense precipitation is expected throughout Saturday, July 18, with rainfall amounts ranging from 30 to 40 millimeters along the coast and in the Coastal Range. In the pre-mountain valleys and the pre-mountain range, rainfall could reach between 40 and 50 millimeters. Wind speeds are projected to vary between 25 and 40 kilometers per hour along the coast, the Coastal Range, and the pre-mountain valleys and ranges. In higher elevations, wind gusts could reach up to 90 kilometers per hour. For Sunday, July 19, similar conditions are forecasted, with rainfall levels remaining high across the region. Along the coast, rain is expected to fall between 30 and 50 millimeters, while the Coastal Range, pre-mountain valleys, and pre-mountain range could see between 40 and 50 millimeters of rain. Wind speeds are anticipated to range from 25 to 40 kilometers per hour in coastal and lower regions, with gusts potentially reaching 75 kilometers per hour. Higher elevations might experience wind speeds between 40 and 60 kilometers per hour, with gusts up to 90 kilometers per hour. The weather event is expected to persist into Monday, July 20, although with some variation depending on location. Rainfall along the coast is predicted to range from 30 to 40 millimeters, while the Coastal Range would receive between 25 and 35 millimeters. Pre-mountain valleys and the pre-mountain range could see between 40 and 50 millimeters of rain. Wind speeds are expected to stay within the 25 to 40 kilometers per hour range along the coast and 40 to 60 kilometers per hour in the mountains. In addition to the weather concerns, Sernageomin, the National Service of Geology and Mining, warned of a high risk of landslides and rockfalls in the coastal areas, pre-mountain valleys, and the pre-mountain range. However, the likelihood of such events in the mountainous regions was assessed as low. The expansion of the red alert underscores the severity of the situation, prompting authorities to mobilize all available resources to manage and mitigate the impact of the weather system. Residents and local officials are advised to remain vigilant and follow updates from emergency services and meteorological authorities. The region has already experienced disruptions due to previous weather events, and this latest alert highlights the need for preparedness and caution among the population. As the situation develops, further updates from local and national authorities are expected to provide more detailed guidance and information on how to respond effectively to the ongoing weather challenges.