State of catastrophe declared in Santiago as floods disrupt Chilean capital
Heavy flooding in Santiago, Chile, has transformed streets into rivers, forcing evacuations and prompting President José Antonio Kast to declare a state of catastrophe in the worst-hit area of Las Condes. Emergency services rescued people trapped by mud and debris, with injuries reported and infrastructure damaged, including clinics and a university campus.
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Severe flooding in Santiago, Chile, has caused streets to turn into rivers, forcing residents and passengers to seek safety on rooftops. The eastern district of Las Condes was among the worst affected, with mud and debris flowing through residential neighborhoods.
Emergency crews rescued individuals trapped in vehicles and buildings, while soldiers assisted in evacuating vulnerable people. At least six people were injured, and 11 residents were moved to safety from a care home for older people.
Two private clinics suffered flooding, with mud covering treatment rooms and medical equipment. A nearby university campus was also impacted by the floods. Chile’s disaster agency issued a red alert for 10 districts around Santiago, warning of potential further mudslides threatening homes and roads.
In response, President José Antonio Kast declared a state of catastrophe in Las Condes, allowing for the deployment of additional rescue teams and military resources. Schools in affected areas were closed, and authorities urged residents to limit travel amid ongoing heavy rains that preceded the flooding.
Officials are investigating a death south of the capital, though its connection to the flooding remains unconfirmed.