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Local media said Chile on Friday, Oct. 9, declared a section of Santiago, the capital, a disaster zone after downpours triggered flash floods and mudslides.
At least 6 people suffered injuries, and officials ordered evacuations.
Covering Las Condes, a wealthy suburb, the order allows public agencies to take special steps to coordinate emergency aid, evaluate damage, and support recovery work.
Intense rainfall on Thursday pushed torrents of water and mud down streets, swept away vehicles and swamped homes.
The Mapocho River also overflowed, and floodwaters blocked roads as emergency crews answered calls for help.
Las Condes Mayor Catalina San Martin said rainfall in recent days totaled 14.4 centimeters (5.7 inches), roughly 9 times the typical amount for October.
The soaked ground now raises the danger of more floods and landslides.
At least 6 people were reportedly injured, including a 1-year-old who suffered fractures.
Firefighters rescued or evacuated over 1,000 people while teams cleared debris, reopened access to affected areas, and assisted those in need.
The National Disaster Prevention and Response Service also put 10 municipalities across the Santiago Metropolitan Region’s mountainous and foothill zones under red alert over the threat of further landslides.
Floods affected homes and infrastructure there, and emergency crews worked to remove mud and debris from streets and help residents.
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