Peru: State of emergency enacted in several departments due to heavy rains March 11

Event

As of March 11, authorities have declared a state of emergency in Ancash, Cajamarca, La Libertad, Lambayeque, Lima, Piura, and Tumbes departments due to heavy rains. In recent hours, the inclement weather and associated floods, overflowing rivers, and landslides have notably affected Tumbes, Piura, and Lambayeque. Reports indicate that the flooding has left at least four individuals dead, affected around 2,000 residents, and damaged about 800 buildings in Tumbes and Piura.

Peru's National Service for Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi) issued red (highest of a four-tier scale) heavy rainfall warnings for the central and northern coastal areas through at least March 14. Further episodes of heavy rains are likely until March 16 and may be accompanied by hail and snow at higher elevations. The inclement weather will affect most of the country to a lesser extent.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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 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.

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)