Peru: Disruptions due to flooding and landslides ongoing in multiple regions as of March 17

Event

Disruptions due to flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall are ongoing in several parts of Peru as of March 17. Reports indicate three fatalities have occurred and one person is missing after heavy rainfall caused damage to homes in mountainous areas of Piura Region March 15. Around 2,500 people in the area have been affected and several roads are impassable. Peru's National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI) has reported several other incidents involving damage to homes, blocked roads, and casualties following heavy rainfall in recent days. Although precipitation is forecast to be less intense across most of the country in the coming days, many rivers across Peru have risen to extremely high levels and the threat of flooding will persist across many areas in the near term.

INDECI has reported that heavy rains triggered a landslide in Retamas in La Libertad Region March 15. Dozens of homes were affected by the landslide and reports indicate at least three fatalities have occurred, with a number of other people still trapped or missing as of March 16. Heavy rains caused damage to homes, roads, and other infrastructure in La Peca district in Amazonas Region following heavy rainfall late March 14. Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds March 12 caused damage to around 100 homes in Chulucanas district in Piura Region. In Callalli district in Arequipa Province heavy rainfall March 11 affected 513 people and 340 homes.

The National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (SENAMHI) is maintaining numerous hydrological warnings across Peru due to high river levels and the potential for further flooding in riverine areas. The highest level red warnings are in effect for the Huancane River in Punio Region through March 17 and the Maranon River in Loreto Region through March 18. INDECI has also warned communities along a number of rivers to take preparation measures due to the rising river levels.

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)
Peru National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI) (Spanish)