Peru: Adverse weather forecast across central and eastern regions through at least Jan. 30 /update 3

Event

Heavy rainfall, snow, sleet, hail, thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across central and eastern Peru through at least Jan. 30. The National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (SENAMHI) has issued a warning for moderate-to-strong precipitation (including rain, snow, sleet, and hail) across the central and southern Highlands regions Jan. 28-29 and a moderate-to-heavy rainfall warning for Rainforest regions Jan. 29-30. The heavy rainfall is forecast to be accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. Snow is forecast in areas 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level and isolated hailstorms in areas above 3,200 meters (10,499 feet) in the Highlands. Hydrological warnings are also in place for several rivers across eastern and central Peru due to rising river levels following heavy rainfall.

As of Jan. 28, the SENAMHI has issued the following advisories:

• Orange precipitation and rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): parts of southwestern Junin and northern Huanca regions Jan. 28; and parts of southeastern San Martin, far southern Loreto, eastern Huanuco, eastern Pasco, eastern, central, and southern Ucayali, and northwestern Madre de Dios regions Jan. 30.

• Orange hydrological warnings: sections of the Ramis and Verde rivers in Puno Region and the Huallaga River in Loreto Region.

• Yellow precipitation and rainfall warnings: across the rest of the affected area.

• Yellow hydrological warnings: sections of the Coata and Cabanillas rivers in Puno Region, the Mapacho and Vilcanota rivers in Cusco Region, and the Apurimac River in Apurimac Region.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Heavy rainfall in recent days has caused flooding in Cusco Region. Downpours caused the Alccamayo River to overflow Jan. 21, causing severe flooding and mudslides in the town of Aguas Calientes. As of Jan. 28, search operations are ongoing for one person still missing following the mudslides. Almost 900 tourists were evacuated from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo. Several buildings, bridges, and sections of road and railway lines were also damaged. Efforts to reopen routes to the key tourist site of Machu Picchu are ongoing, with rail services to the region reopening Jan. 28.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (SENAMHI) (Spanish)