Embalse Rungue, Dam north of Santiago de Chile
Embalse Rungue is a reservoir in the hilly landscape of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, fed mainly by rainwater and mountain streams. The water serves primarily to irrigate farms and fields in the surrounding area.
The dam was built between 1959 and 1964 and opened in 1964, constructed primarily from earth with a concrete core wall. Following the 1965 earthquake, cracks were repaired and safety measures were later reinforced.
The reservoir serves local farmers and communities as a vital water source that has been part of the region for many years. It represents how people shape the land to support agriculture and daily life in areas with dry seasons.
Visitors can drive to the reservoir and park at a designated parking area to explore the surroundings on foot. Bring water and snacks with you, as there are few facilities nearby.
After heavy rains in 2015, an unusual bright green algal bloom formed on the water surface caused by floating plants like water lentil and water fern. This rare event shows how quickly the water body responds to environmental changes.
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