Peru: Severe weather forecast across several areas through Feb. 13

Officials have declared states of emergency due to recent natural disasters in 96 districts of the country as of Feb. 11. The impacted regions include Ancash, Amazonas, Apurimac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Junin, Lima, Madre de Dios, Pasco, Puno, San Martin and Tacna. The order frees up additional resources to support communities impacted by recent heavy rainfall and landslides. In addition, officials have warned of further rounds of heavy rainfall across many areas of the country Feb. 11-13. Yellow and orange warnings are in place for several mountainous and jungle areas over this period. A red warning is in place in parts of the northern Tumbes Department, Feb. 11.

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.

Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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 intermittent flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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.