Peru: Adverse weather forecast across central regions through at least Jan. 29 /update 2

Event

Heavy rainfall, snow, sleet, hail, thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across the Highlands in central Peru through at least Jan. 29. The National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (SENAMHI) has issued an orange-level warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for moderate-to-strong precipitation (including rain, snow, sleet, and hail) across the Highlands Jan. 26-27. 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). The affected area includes parts of Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Ica, Junin, La Libertad, Lambayeque, Lima, Moquegua, Pasco, Piura, and Puno regions.

SENAMHI has issued a separate orange precipitation warning for similar weather conditions in southern and central areas of the Highlands Jan. 28-29. The affected area for the warnings includes parts of Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Junin, Lima, Moquega, Pascao, Puno, and Tacna regions.

As of Jan. 27, red hydrological warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) have been issued for sections of Puno Region's Cabanillas and Verde rivers due to rising river levels following heavy rainfall. An orange warning is in effect for the Ramis River in Puno Region and yellow warnings for the Coata River in Puno Region and the Apurimac River in Apurimac Region.

Heavy rainfall in recent days has caused flooding in Cusco Region. Downpours caused the Alccamayo River to overflow Jan. 21, causing severe flooding in the town of Aguas Calientes. As of Jan. 25, one person is missing, and almost 900 people have been evacuated from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo. Several buildings, bridges, and sections of road and railway lines were also damaged. Flooding caused by the overflowing Vilcanota River also caused damage to buildings in Marangani District. The severe weather has triggered mudslides and landslides in the region. Efforts to reopen routes to the key tourist site of Machu Picchu are ongoing.

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. The railway connecting Machu Picchu from Cusco is closed through at least Jan. 27 due to damage to the tracks from the heavy rains.

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)