Chile floods kill two and force evacuations across central regions

A new frontal system swept central and southern Chile, causing heavy rain, river overflows and landslides. The storm left two people dead in the Los Ríos region after a tree fell on their vehicle and isolated more than 2,000 residents. Around 180,000 households lost electricity and over 350 people were affected, with dozens placed in temporary shelters and more than 1,000 homes damaged.

Authorities declared a red alert and ordered evacuations in the Bío Bío, La Araucanía, Ñuble and Coquimbo communes. Emergency crews continue to restore road access, provide aid and monitor river levels. The government deployed the Chilean Army, together with Carabineros, to secure evacuated neighborhoods in Angol and protect homes from theft. The Ministry of Development Social and Family activated the Ficha Básica de Emergencia (FIBE) in nine Biobío communes to catalogue damage and channel assistance.

The storm also hit the coastal tourism sector in the Coquimbo region, forcing restaurant closures and water shortages, while animal rescue teams saved livestock trapped by floodwaters in Talcahuano. Local officials have asked the president to declare the Biobío region a disaster zone to mobilise extra resources.