San Pedro de Inacaliri River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Pedro de Inacaliri River |
|
|---|---|
San Pedro River and Paniri volcano
|
|
| Country | Chile |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Loa River |
| Length | 76 km (47 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 9,850 km2 (3,800 sq mi) |
| Tributaries |
|
The San Pedro de Inacaliri River, often called the San Pedro River, is an important river located in Chile. It flows through the El Loa Province in the Antofagasta Region. This river is special because of how its water is used and how it interacts with the landscape.
About the San Pedro River
The San Pedro River begins high up in the mountains, more than 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level. It forms where two smaller rivers, the Silala and the Cajón, meet.
Water for People
A part of the San Pedro River's water is very important for people living nearby. About 50 to 60 liters (13 to 16 gallons) of water per second are taken from the river. This water is then sent across the desert to the city of Chuquicamata. It helps supply homes and businesses with fresh water.
A Vanishing Act
The San Pedro River has a unique feature: its water seems to disappear and then reappear! About 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of where it starts, the river's water flows into a flat, wet area called a floodplain. Here, the water goes underground or spreads out, making it look like the river has vanished.
But don't worry! The water reappears about 15 kilometers (9 miles) further downstream. This happens at a place called Ojos del San Pedro, which means "Eyes of San Pedro." Here, the river flows partly above ground again, right next to a large, flat area covered in salt. This salt flat is about 5 square kilometers (2 square miles) big.
Carving the Land
Before the San Pedro River joins the larger Loa River, it flows around the San Pedro volcano. As the river flows, it has carved a very deep canyon. This canyon is about 100 meters (328 feet) deep and cuts through old lava rock called rhyolite. It shows the powerful effect the river has had on the land over many years.
.svg)
See also
In Spanish: Río San Pedro de Inacaliri para niños
