Severe Weather In Chile: Malaysians Advised To Remain Vigilant, Avoid Affected Areas

KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 (Bernama) -- Malaysians in Chile have been advised to remain vigilant, comply with the authorities' instructions, avoid affected areas and stay updated on the latest weather developments, following severe weather that continues to affect much of the country's central and southern regions.

The Malaysian Embassy in Chile also advised Malaysians to plan their travel carefully or postpone visits to the affected regions until conditions improve, except in cases of emergency, and to remain in contact with the embassy for information and assistance if needed.

“Those requiring consular assistance or who have information regarding any Malaysian who may have been affected can contact the embassy via +56943490925 (consular officer) or by email at mwsantiago@kln.gov.my," the embassy said in an email response to Bernama.

Based on the embassy's registration records, no Malaysians are currently in the affected areas and, as of 10 am on Saturday (local time), no reports had been received of any Malaysians affected by the disaster.

As of July 16, a total of 45 Malaysians in Chile had registered with the embassy, including the embassy's Home-Based Staff (HBS) and their family members.

The embassy said it had contacted Malaysians to obtain updates on their situation and had maintained continuous communication through a WhatsApp group.

“The embassy will continue to monitor the situation, report the latest developments to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and provide regular advice to Malaysians in Chile," it said.

The Chilean government has declared a Preventive State of Emergency in 10 of the country's 16 regions -- Atacama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Metropolitan (Santiago), O'Higgins, Maule, Ñuble, Biobío, La Araucanía and Los Ríos – until July 21, following authorities' warnings of severe weather linked to El Niño.

“The current situation in the city of Santiago is safe, with only heavy rainfall. However, flash floods have occurred in the outskirts of the city,” the embassy said.

Media reports said about 257,000 households had been left without electricity supply, particularly in southern Chile.

Authorities have also reportedly closed several major roads for safety reasons and to limit public movement.
-- BERNAMA