Storm washes tons of trash onto La Serena beaches

La Serena's beaches, a popular tourist destination, are now marred by kilometers of accumulated debris after a recent storm system dramatically increased the flow of the Elqui River. Tonnes of trash, including bricks, sticks, wood, and plastics, have been washed ashore, creating an unsightly mess along the traditional and tourist-favored sector of El Faro.

The significant increase in the river's caudal was a direct result of the recent frontal system that affected the region. This natural event, while common, has had a substantial environmental and aesthetic impact on the coastal areas of La Serena.

In response to the environmental damage, a group of volunteers is organizing through social media to tackle the cleanup effort. Despite facing their own personal challenges, such as water shortages in their homes due to the same weather events, these individuals are stepping up to restore the beaches. Their initiative highlights a community's resilience and commitment to preserving their local environment.