Chilean authorities have declared a state of catastrophe in the region of Coquimbo and the province of Huasco, after heavy rains caused flooding and landslides.

According to local mayors, at least five people have died. Chile’s disaster response service, Senapred, said the extreme weather has left thousands affected, with more than 99,000 people isolated and several people missing across the country.

Areas of Coquimbo recorded historic rainfall, including more than 200 mm at Cerro Tololo, according to Chilean meteorological authorities.

President José Antonio Kast said that the government decided to activate the constitutional state of catastrophe after evaluating the emergency.