Southern Chile Faces Thunderstorm Risk as New Atmospheric River Approaches
Chile's weather service issued a warning for probable thunderstorms on Sunday across La Araucanía, Los Ríos, Los Lagos and Chiloé. A category-4 atmospheric river caused heavy rain and evacuations in central-southern Chile on 23–24 September, and Santiago may see rain and strong winds on Monday. Forecast models indicate another frontal system with a possible category-3 atmospheric river could arrive in early October.
Chile’s weather service flagged likely storms for Sunday afternoon and night in southern regions including Chiloé. The alert follows a powerful category-4 atmospheric river that struck on 23–24 September, when Corral recorded 123 mm of rain in 18 hours and authorities ordered red alerts and evacuations.
Forecasters also expect rain and gusts up to 70 km/h in Santiago on Monday. Models point to another frontal system and a possible category-3 atmospheric river in early October, with a high freezing level increasing southern mountain flood risk. Above-average rain is likely in 14 of 16 regions, heaviest from Biobío to Aysén.
The renewed storm risk could disrupt daily life across southern Chile, where residents may face flooding and renewed evacuation pressure. Emergency crews might remain stretched after last week’s response. In Santiago, Monday’s rain and strong gusts may affect commuters and outdoor plans. If another atmospheric river arrives in early October, communities from Biobío to Aysén could see added strain on roads, rivers, and farming, though the severity will depend on how the system develops.