Chile is currently facing a major natural disaster. Continuous heavy rainfall in the capital, Santiago, and in the central and southern parts of the country has worsened the situation. It is being reported that this October has seen more rainfall than in the last 76 years. Experts believe that El Niño is the reason behind it.
The situation is most critical in the Las Condes area of Santiago. A torrent of water and mud coming down from the Andes Mountains rapidly entered residential areas. Within moments, cars parked on the roads started getting washed away. Many houses, shops, clinics and schools have been flooded and have suffered extensive damage. In view of the situation, the administration has issued a red alert in 10 municipalities and declared Las Condes a disaster zone, where several people have also been injured.
In the city of Talagante, about 35 kilometres from the capital, the water level of the Mapocho River has risen above the danger mark. The river water broke its banks and entered homes, leaving people trapped inside their own houses. The police and rescue teams had to take the help of helicopters. Children, elderly people and pets stranded on rooftops were moved to safe places. According to information, more than 17 people have been airlifted so far.
According to the local administration, the drainage system of the city was overwhelmed because the rainfall exceeded its capacity, which prevented proper drainage. People have been asked not to go to the affected areas and to let the rescue teams do their work.
This is not the first time such a situation has occurred in Chile. Two months ago, a similar storm also claimed lives, and now reports of heavy damage are also coming from southern Chile.
