15 Nov 2017 | 12:37 PM UTC
Peru: Flood, landslide risks as rainy season begins
60-day state of emergency issued for various regions due to “imminent danger” posed by rainy season (November to April)
Event
The Peruvian government declared a preventive state of emergency for various parts of the country on Tuesday, November 14, due to imminent dangers posed by the upcoming rainy season, notably flooding and landslides. The measures, which will remain in effect for 60 days, have been enacted for six entire regions - Tumbes, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Áncash, Cajamarca, and Ica - as well as 45 districts of Lima department and three districts of Constitucional del Callao province.
Context
In most of Peru the rainy season typically lasts from November through April (from January to May in the Cusco region). Torrential rains with the potential to cause deadly floods and landslides are common during this period. The 2016-2017 rainy season was particularly devastating; flooding and landslides caused major infrastructural damage and more than 100 fatalities and triggered a dengue fever epidemic. The northwest of the country, especially the Piura region, was particularly hard hit.
Advice
Individuals present in affected areas are advised to follow weather reports, be prepared for associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
