Severe Flooding in Chile Leaves 13 Dead, Thousands Displaced
Heavy rains have caused severe flooding across central and southern Chile, resulting in the deaths of 13 people and leaving seven others missing. The storms have led to widespread damage, including the destruction of 81 homes and significant damage to 2,761 others. Approximately 2,281 people have been displaced, and 87,000 remain without electricity. The Chilean government has declared a state of emergency and is considering sanctions against electricity distributors for delays in restoring power. The flooding has also disrupted schools and some mining operations, although major copper and lithium mines in the northern regions remain unaffected. Authorities warn of continued risks as waterways and riverbanks remain vulnerable to rising water levels.