Chile floods: Death toll rises to 13, over 60,000 isolated

Chile is grappling with the devastating aftermath of severe rainfall, which has claimed at least 13 lives and left more than 60,000 residents cut off from the outside world. The relentless downpour has washed out roads, severing vital connections and hindering rescue efforts.

The storm, originating in southern Chile, unleashed extreme and uncharacteristic rainfall upon the typically arid Coquimbo and Atacama regions. This unusual weather pattern has led to widespread destruction, with approximately 2,800 homes damaged or destroyed. Rivers have overflowed their banks, inundating towns and further complicating access.

Alicia Cebrian, head of Chile's National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (Senapred), confirmed the grim toll, stating, "There are already 13 dead and 7 missing." She noted that while the heavy rain is expected to subside, the risk remains high due to swollen riverbeds and canyons.

In response to the crisis, President Jose Antonio Kast has declared a state of emergency in the affected zones. The government's immediate priority is the restoration of essential services to the isolated communities. The extreme weather event highlights the vulnerability of regions unaccustomed to such intense precipitation.

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There are already 13 dead and 7 missing.