Storm Causes Multiple Damages on Route 5 in Atacama, Chile

The storm affecting Chile's 'norte chico' (small north) is causing multiple damages, paralyzing vehicle traffic on Route 5 in the Atacama Region, the country's main road and logistics artery.

Sinkholes, floods, landslides, and collapses at various points along the highway forced its closure since Sunday, July 19.

According to information provided by Sociedad Concesionaria Ruta del Algarrobo, responsible for the La Serena – Vallenar section, a road closure regulated by Carabineros (Chilean police) is maintained from kilometer 512 northbound and kilometer 657 southbound.

Meanwhile, a little further north, the Valles del Desierto concessionaire - in charge of the stretch between Vallenar, Copiapó, and Caldera - reported that the main road had alternating traffic between kilometer 674 (northern access to Vallenar) and kilometer 731 (Totoral toll booth). It also announced that a bypass with alternating traffic on the right lane was implemented between kilometers 675 and 702, while emergency teams and machinery are working in some sectors.

Earlier, on Sunday night, the National Confederation of Truck Owners of Chile (CNDC) shed light on the situation, stating that 'due to the storm, there are several cuts on Route 5, between Copiapó and Vallenar. A major situation exists at the Totoral toll booth, Atacama, between Copiapó and Vallenar, which is closed, and truck drivers are being instructed to turn back.'

Route C-46, which provides access from Route 5 North - near Vallenar - to the ports located in Huasco, also suffered significant damage. Sinkholes in some sections of the road, caused by the reactivation of water courses, prevent smooth passage along the road that runs from the Huasco valley to the coastal area.