Arauco Braces for Survival: Resilience and Life-Saving Measures Amid Relentless Storms
“Today, the emergency is to resist and take shelter to protect human life, that is the priority,” stated Elizabeth Maricán, the Mayor of Arauco, as the Biobío region grapples with a powerful weather system. Addressing the situation on the “Mañana de Agricultura” program, the mayor provided a sobering update on the unfolding crisis.
A Community in Crisis
According to Mayor Maricán, “the commune is quite affected. The weather conditions are relentless. We are currently experiencing strong winds and rain that has not let up.” The situation is dire, as the region braces for an additional 100 millimeters of rainfall today, leaving the already saturated soils and overflowing rivers in a precarious state.
“We continue to have rather discouraging forecasts, because they indicate that we will receive at least 100 millimeters more of water today, therefore, the soils are saturated and absolutely overflowing,” the mayor expressed with concern.
Prioritizing Life and Safety
With four rivers already overflowing and numerous landslides, the mayor emphasized the gravity of the situation, particularly the “alert issued yesterday afternoon about the probability of a mudslide, which is a major concern, because we are talking about the integrity and safety of the residents, the children, the elderly, and the pregnant women.”
In response, the authorities have opened four shelters in the commune, and the mayor has made a direct appeal to the community, stating, “What I ask, as mayor, of the Arauco commune and the residents in particular who are in risk zones, is that they please prioritize their lives. I understand that it is difficult to lose things, but life comes first.”
A Call for Unity and Resilience
As the community of Arauco faces this formidable challenge, the mayor’s message is clear: “Today, the emergency is to resist and take shelter to protect human life, that is the priority.” With the weather conditions showing no signs of relenting, the people of Arauco must come together, heed the warnings, and prioritize their safety in the face of this unfolding crisis.
Conclusion
The resilience and determination of the people of Arauco will be tested in the days ahead, as they navigate the treacherous conditions brought on by the relentless storms. However, with the leadership and guidance of Mayor Maricán, the community is poised to weather this crisis, with the unwavering focus on preserving life and ensuring the safety of all its members.
References
Revive la entrevista completa acá: “Hoy la emergencia es resistir y tomar el resguardo a la vida humana, esa es la prioridad”, sostuvo la alcaldesa de Arauco, Elizabeth Maricán, frente al sistema frontal que afecta a la región del Biobío.
