Yellow Alert Declared for Severe Rains to Hit Chile's Southern Regions

The Chile National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (Senapred) declared a yellow alert for the La Araucanía, Los Ríos, and Los Lagos regions in the south of the country. This decision followed a weather alert issued by the General Directorate of Meteorology (DMC) anticipating heavy rainfall in the near future. The preventive early warning measures previously in effect for these three regions were modified in anticipation of new, harsher weather conditions. Authorities called on residents of the region to be cautious against potential floods, landslides, and other disasters. It was reported that the yellow alert will remain in effect throughout the adverse weather conditions and will be reassessed according to the situation.

In La Araucanía, the first of the affected regions, 80 millimeters of rainfall is expected in coastal areas, and 60 to 65 millimeters in valleys. In the mountainous areas of the region, the rainfall amount is estimated to reach up to 110 millimeters. Senapred Regional Director Ian Gorayeb announced that the rainfall will be effective from Tuesday morning until Wednesday. The concentration of the rainfall in a very short time frame poses serious risks in the region. Additionally, severe winds reaching 70 kilometers per hour are expected on Tuesday. Authorities warned that the risk of landslides and avalanches in mountainous areas has increased due to the high zero isotherm.

The situation in the Los Ríos region is quite concerning, as rainfall reaching up to 120 millimeters is forecasted within a 24-hour period. The technical report of the National Geology and Mining Service (Sernageomin) emphasizes a high probability of avalanches and landslides throughout the region. Faced with this dangerous scenario, the Valdivia municipality activated its emergency action plan. Valdivia Mayor Carla Amtmann stated that although the city is accustomed to rains, such intense flooding will create an extremely exceptional situation. Amtmann expressed that floods are inevitable at critical points, adding that all field teams are on high alert and citizens should not go outside unless necessary.

In the Los Lagos region, authorities also coordinated preventive measures by holding technical meetings in the Osorno, Chiloé, and Palena regions. Senapred Regional Director Mitzio Riquelme announced that 40 to 100 millimeters of rainfall is expected in the coming days and winds could reach speeds of 80 kilometers per hour. Riquelme also explained that due to the high zero isotherm, rain will fall in high areas where snowfall is normally seen, further increasing the risk of floods and landslides. Authorities warned the public to stay away from riverbanks and wetlands where sudden flash floods may occur. The regional population is being kept on alert for sudden weather changes and the instructions of emergency teams.

Overall, the southern regions of Chile are highly prepared against the devastating effects of this frontal system, which is expected to intensify in the near future. Senapred and local authorities have mobilized all their resources to ensure the safety of citizens. The high volume of rainfall in a short period has the potential to exceed the soil's water absorption capacity, leading to severe infrastructure damage. Particularly, the combination of high temperatures and rainfall in mountainous areas can trigger mass movements that are rare and dangerous during the winter months. In light of all these developments, it is of great importance for regional residents to heed the warnings of authorized institutions and strictly adhere to emergency protocols. Meteorology experts and disaster teams continue to closely monitor the evolution of weather conditions to carry out necessary interventions.