(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – Rainstorms and landslides in Chile have contaminated a major river forcing the authorities to cut off drinking water to four million people in the capital, Santiago.
Officials said the water supply from the Maipo River would be cut to most of the city until the water flowed clear.
People stocked up on bottled water and the authorities ordered restaurants and businesses to remain closed.
Officials also postponed the start of the school term on Monday.
Emergency personnel said the water rushing down from the Andes had also cut roads and isolated thousands of people.
