Abstract

In the Caldera coastal district of Northern Chile, the marine terraces of Quaternary age are characterized by steeo cliffs dissected by deep gullies, from scarps of the terraces. Climate conditions, such as the presence of Ocean waters upwelling and El Niño, cause sporadic rainfall events. Hence, the micro-watershades and streams become active and function as torrenciasl channels producing debris flows. Moreover, torrential systems drain into the urban area of Caldera, causing flooding in the lower parts of the city. The city is growing into the area influenced by flooding and debris flows hazards and thus making vulnerable the resident population and infrastructure.