Huge waves batter Chile coast Waves as high as seven metres pounded homes and businesses on Chile's coastline. The extreme conditions started on Wednesday with weather experts warning they could last until the weekend. High winds caused the tidal surges which have led emergency services to issue weather warnings to 11 regions in the South American country predicting strong winds, high tides and large waves. In the city of Vina del Mar about 120 kilometres west of the capital Santiago the waves washed over sea defences flooding coastal streets and damaging homes and businesses. Seaside resorts also suffered and one port was forced to close to all vessels. In another area eight homes were flooded and 32 people affected. More about: Chile, Tsunami, Weather