Chilean Mayor Warns of Rising Death Toll from Storms, Criticizes Government Response

The Coquimbo region in Chile is grappling with the aftermath of severe weather systems, which have led to the declaration of a catastrophe zone. Mayor Alí Manouchehri expressed grave concern that the number of fatalities could increase, following the discovery of two deceased individuals in the Cruz de Caña and El Romero areas.

“

We are beginning to count the deceased. The first report was of two people deceased and, in a way, as the hours go by, and let's hope not, it could increase. There are people who were in the ravines for many hours, completely activated; they could not evacuate.

Currently, ten people are missing, and more than a thousand residents have been impacted by the extreme conditions. Manouchehri highlighted that some individuals were trapped in ravines for extended periods, unable to evacuate. He stated that the initial report of two deaths might unfortunately rise as the situation unfolds.

“

We have seen a terrible reaction from national authorities.

The mayor launched a sharp criticism against the national government, describing its reaction as "terrible" and its emergency alert system (SAE) as "shameful" and "late." He argued that alerts were issued when evacuation was already impossible, leaving families in perilous situations. Manouchehri declared a loss of confidence in the government's handling of the emergency, suggesting that different actions could have mitigated the impact.

“

It sounds very nice on the phone, an alert that tells you to evacuate when you are already in a situation where it is impossible to evacuate. It becomes a shame.