Have you ever imagined what it would be like to live in a place where rainis it so scarce that the average annual rainfall barely exceeds 0.76 liters per square meter?
This is the reality of the city of Arica, located in the Atacama Desert, in the far north of the country. Chile. Arica is known as the driest city in the world, and its population faces unique challenges and ingenious strategies to survive in such an arid environment.
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Arica's extreme aridity is the result of a combination of geographic and climatic factors. The city is situated in a rain shadow zone.
This means that the prevailing westerly winds dump their moisture over the nearby mountains, leaving very little precipitation in the coastal region.
This rain shadow is caused by the presence of imposing mountains that block the passage of water-laden clouds.
Another factor contributing to Arica's aridity is the cold Humboldt current in the Pacific Ocean. This current transports cold, nutrient-rich water from the depths of the ocean to the surface, inhibiting the formation of rain clouds in the region.
Despite water shortages, the city of Arica has developed innovative strategies to guarantee its water supply and provide a relatively normal life for its inhabitants.
The city mainly depends on the desalination of seawater and the import of water from other regions to meet its water needs.
Desalination plants provide drinking water for human consumption, while tanker trucks transport the liquid to areas without access to distribution networks.
Rainwater capture and storage systems were implemented in Arica. They involve collecting rainwater through impervious covers or surfaces and storing it in cisterns or reservoirs for later use.
(Image: iStock/Reproduction)
Surprisingly, agriculture is possible in Arica thanks to the use of efficient irrigation systems and technologies that optimize water use.
Crops are adapted to drought conditions, with a focus on resistant varieties, and Arica has a number of attractions tourist attractions, such as beautiful beaches, Morro de Arica (a hill with panoramic views), colonial architecture and a rich history cultural.
Sustainable tourism is an important source of income for the city and contributes to its economic development.
Living in Arica requires adapting to the desert environment, but offers unique rewards. The city is known for its gastronomy that combines Peruvian, Bolivian and Chilean influences, providing a unique culinary experience.
Arica is still home to historic treasures such as St. Mark's Cathedral and Ariztía Palace, as well as the iconic Morro de Arica, which not only offers spectacular views but also pays homage to the heroes of the War of Pacific.
The city welcomes visitors exploring its natural and cultural attractions, such as the Azapa Valley, the Ruta de las Iglesias, the San Miguel de Azapa Museum and the Lauca National Park, which is located nearby the city.
Living in Arica is a unique experience that demands adaptation and resilience. The driest place in the world is an example of how human creativity can overcome the challenges posed by a hostile environment.
With its water supply strategies, rain collection systems and adapted agricultural practices, Arica offers an unparalleled quality of life and continues to attract visitors with its natural beauty and rich heritage cultural.
The driest city in the world is undoubtedly a place of fascination and wonder, where life flourishes even in the most arid climates.
