Chile. Photo: Shutterstock Chile has declared a constitutional state of exception due to catastrophe in the province of Tocopilla following severe weather that has caused significant impacts in the northern region.
President José Antonio Kast announced the measure, saying all available human and material resources would be deployed to respond to the emergency.
Interior Undersecretary Máximo Pavez has been in the region since the previous night and will coordinate with a National Defense Chief, who is expected to take responsibility for coordinating forces operating in the affected area.
The declaration comes as severe weather and flooding affect Tocopilla, with access to the area currently restricted. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to follow official instructions and any evacuation orders.
For travelers, the situation could cause road closures, restricted access and disruptions to transport in and around Tocopilla. Anyone planning to travel through northern Chile should monitor local authorities and civil protection services for the latest conditions before setting out.
The British government has advised British citizens in Tocopilla to follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders, and to monitor updates from Chile's civil protection agency and local officials.
The situation remains ongoing as emergency teams and authorities work to assess the damage and respond to the severe weather.