Heavy rains affecting Atacama and Coquimbo regions of Chile since May 12, 2017, have caused widespread floods, left at least 2 people dead and forced 3 000 people to evacuate. Both Coquimbo and Atacama are on Red Alert. La Serena, the capital of Coquimbo region recorded more than 100 mm (3.9 inches) of rain within just 8 hours, Chile’s Minister of Interior said. The city normally receives 2.8 mm (0.1 inches) during the entire month of May. While more than 20
locations recorded 100 mm (3.9 inches) of rain during the period of severe weather, 2 locations saw more than 200 mm (7.9 inches), according to FloodList. According to the National Emergency Office of the Ministry of Interior And Public Security (ONEMI), 2 people died in an area near Monte Patria, Limarí Province of Coquimbo, after being dragged in their vehicle by flood water. Evacuated localities include Huamalata, Algarrobo, Villaseca, San Felix and Samo Bajo. READ MORE
