The National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci) recommends preparedness measures before the weather warning N.° 53 (orange level) of Senamhi, on the occurrence of precipitation (snow, hail, sleet and rain) of moderate to heavy intensity in the departments of Ancash, Apurímac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Ica, Junin, La Libertad, Lima, Moquegua, Pasco, Piura, Puno, Tacna and Tumbes, which would occur from Sunday 19 to Monday March 20.
According to the press release, accumulated rainfall values close to 30 mm/day are expected in the northern highlands, around 20 mm/day in the central highlands and values above 18 mm/day in the southern highlands.
Likewise, on the northern coast, rainfall values above 30 mm/day are expected in Tumbes and Piura. These precipitations will be accompanied by thunderstorms and wind gusts with speeds close to 35 km/h.
In addition, localized hail is expected in areas above 2800 m above sea level, and isolated snow in localities above 4000 m above sea level. On the other hand, moderate rainfall is expected in the medium-high basin of the central zone.
What a known as the ‘Huaicos’
Huaicos are a natural disaster that occurs in Peru, particularly during the rainy season, which runs from December to April. These are landslides that occur on the steep slopes of the Andes and can cause severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and communities.
In 2023, the situation of huaicos in Peru has been particularly challenging due to the impact of climate change, deforestation, and other factors that have contributed to the increase in the frequency and intensity of these events. As a result, travelers need to take additional precautions when planning their trips to Peru, especially during the rainy season.
One of the main risks of huaycos is the blockage of roads and highways, which can cause significant delays and disruptions to travel plans. In some cases, entire towns and cities can become isolated due to the destruction of bridges and other critical infrastructure.
How to stay informed
When planning a trip to Peru during the rainy season, it is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and road conditions. The Peruvian government has a website called “El Peruano” that provides up-to-date information on road closures and other travel restrictions due to huaycos.
To reduce the risk of being affected by huaycos, travelers should consider taking the following precautions:
- Avoid traveling to high-risk areas during the rainy season, especially if you are planning to hike or engage in outdoor activities.
- Stay informed about weather conditions and road closures by checking local news and government websites.
- Follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services in case of an emergency.
- Always carry an emergency kit, including water, food, and first aid supplies.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers natural disasters and emergency evacuations.
Places affected
Some of the places that can be affected by huaicos in Peru include the cities of Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, as well as popular tourist destinations such as Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. In addition, many hiking trails and outdoor activities may be closed due to the risk of landslides and flooding.
One of the areas most affected by the heavy rains has been the northern coast of Peru, where cities like Piura, Trujillo, and Chiclayo have experienced significant flooding.
The Piura River, which runs through the region, has overflowed, causing severe damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The city of Trujillo has also been hit hard by the rains, with streets and houses flooded and hundreds of people evacuated to temporary shelters.
In the highlands, the heavy rains have caused landslides that have blocked roads and isolated some rural communities. The city of Huaraz, located in the central Andes, has been particularly affected by landslides that have damaged roads and bridges, making it difficult to access the city and surrounding areas.
In the south of Peru, the region of Cusco has also been impacted by the heavy rains, with landslides blocking roads and making it difficult to reach popular tourist destinations like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
The town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu, has been affected by the overflowing of the Vilcanota River, causing the suspension of train service to the town.
How to travel safe
As a tourist visiting Peru during the rainy season, it is essential to stay informed about the weather conditions and the risks associated with traveling to different regions.
It is advisable to check the weather forecast and local news regularly, and to take appropriate precautions when visiting areas that are prone to flooding and landslides.
Traveling during natural disasters can be challenging, and it is essential to take appropriate precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in Peru. Here are some tips to travel safely during natural disasters:
Stay informed:
Keep yourself updated with the latest weather and travel advisories issued by local authorities and the news. Make sure to check for any road closures, flight cancellations, or other travel restrictions before setting out.
Plan ahead:
If possible, plan your trip well in advance and take into consideration the weather patterns of the region you will be visiting. Choose your mode of transport and accommodation carefully, keeping in mind the potential impact of natural disasters on the region.
Carry essential supplies:
Pack enough food, water, and other essential supplies in case of emergency. It is also a good idea to carry a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a portable charger.
Follow local advice:
Always follow the advice of local authorities, emergency services, and hotel staff. If you are unsure about the situation, ask for assistance or advice from the local authorities or your hotel.
Stay away from dangerous areas:
Avoid areas that are prone to flooding, landslides, or other natural disasters. Be aware of the warning signs and take appropriate action if necessary.
Use reliable transportation:
When traveling during natural disasters, it is important to use reliable transportation that is safe and well-maintained. Avoid using private cars or taxis that may not be equipped to handle the extreme weather conditions.
Purchase travel insurance:
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers natural disasters and emergency evacuation. This can help cover unexpected costs associated with natural disasters and provide peace of mind while traveling.
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