The Americas under extreme weather pressure: Tornadoes and floods hit the USA and Chile

In the Western Hemisphere, a series of powerful atmospheric phenomena is unfolding simultaneously over two continents. While the United States battles tornadoes and violent storms, Chile faces the tragic consequences of torrential rains.

A severe weather front has gripped both North and South America simultaneously. Destructive tornadoes, strong winds, furious rainfall, and flash floods have forced authorities on both sides of the hemisphere to activate emergency protocols.

On American soil, more than 116 million citizens are in the danger zone, as powerful storms are forecast to produce tornadoes, destructive winds, large hail, and sudden floods. The most threatened regions include the Northeast and eastern parts of the country, especially New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the Mid-Atlantic coastal belt.

Experts warn of the storm hazards, as winds can reach speeds of up to 110 km/h (68 mph), while incessant rainfall significantly increases the threat of local flooding. Recently, the National Weather Service confirmed the passage of an EF-1 tornado in New York state, whose winds were blowing at around 153 km/h (95 mph). This phenomenon left behind infrastructure damage, including downed trees, power lines snapped, and structural damage.

Meanwhile, in the southern part of the continent, Chile is experiencing one of the worst natural tragedies of the last decade. The heavy downpours, fueled by the El Niño climate pattern, have claimed the lives of at least 10 people. Over 100,000 residents have been stranded by floodwaters, thousands more have been forcibly displaced, and tens of thousands of homes are in darkness or without access to drinking water.

In response to the crisis, the central government has declared a state of emergency in several disaster-stricken regions.