Peru: Disruptions due to landslide ongoing in Arequipa Region as of late Feb. 6

Event

Disruptions following a landslide are ongoing in Arequipa Region as of late Feb. 6. The landslide was triggered by heavy rainfall and has killed at least 36 people in Miski, Mariano Nicolas Valcarcel District, Camana Province; the death toll is likely to rise as search and rescue operations progress. Reports indicate that debris from the landslide is blocking at least 3 km (2 miles) of a vital road; clearing operations are ongoing. Officials estimate that 12,000 people have been affected.

Further rainfall could result in flooding and additional landslides. 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.

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. 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.