Chile hit by floods and landslides; Las Condes under state of emergency
Torrential rains caused the Mapocho River to overflow, evacuation of 1,000+ people and at least six injuries.
Heavy rains triggered floods and landslides in Santiago and nearby areas of Chile, forcing the evacuation of more than 1,000 people and leaving at least six injured, officials reported.
President José Antonio Kast declared a state of emergency in Las Condes, an eastern suburb of Santiago, after torrential downpours left main roads impassable and caused extensive damage.
Rivers, roads and schools affected
The Mapocho River overflowed its banks, prompting evacuation orders for neighbourhoods along its course. Firefighters said they had rescued or moved to safety over 1,000 residents stranded by the floods. Among the wounded is a one-year-old child who suffered fractures.
Chile's disaster agency placed an additional ten districts on high alert because of the risk of new landslides and ordered schools to close while authorities assess the damage and stabilise slopes and waterways.
Authorities continue search-and-rescue and recovery operations as crews work to clear blocked roads and restore local services. Emergency teams warned residents to avoid flooded areas and follow evacuation instructions.
Authorities noted that the country had already experienced severe storms a few months ago. Published: 09 October 2026, 18:41.
Photo: press material from the event
