Weather Alert: Peru, Harsh Weather Conditions due to El Niño
Weather Alert: Peru, Harsh Weather Conditions due to El Niño
Location: Peru
Event:
U.S. citizens residing in or traveling through regions expected to be affected by El Niño (listed below) are encouraged to review the information below and take appropriate preparedness measures.
The following information is based on data and assessments published by Peruvian government agencies and other non-U.S. sources; it does not reflect an independent forecast, analysis, or prediction by the U.S. government.
Historical data shows that possible impacts vary significantly by geography.
Regions Most Likely to Be Affected:
North & Central Coast
Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Tumbes, Áncash, Lima, Callao
Possible impact: Torrential rainfall, urban flooding, river overflow, mudslides (huaicos), and extreme heatwaves. Warm ocean temperatures typically produce heavy rainfall capable of damaging crops, affecting infrastructure, and isolating communities.
Metropolitan Lima and Central Region: Excessive rainfall may produce landslides in ravines, especially along the Rímac, Chillón, and Lurín river basins, potentially obstructing major routes such as the Carretera Central. Coastal cities may also experience prolonged heatwaves.
North Highlands & Jungle
Cajamarca, Huánuco, Ucayali
Possible impact: Landslides due to saturated soils, river flooding, agricultural disruption.
Southern Zone
Puno, Cusco, Moquegua, Tacna, Arequipa
Possible impact: Prolonged drought, water shortages, and impacts on livestock and agriculture.
Additionally, warmer temperatures and stagnant water can increase mosquito breeding, heightening the risk of dengue and other diseases.
Actions to Take:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Monitor local media and local alerts for updates
- Carry proper identification, including your U.S. passport with a current (country) visa.
- Ensure communication plans are in place with family members and notify them of your safety.
- Identify safe routes and shelter locations in case of flooding or landslides.
- Have an evacuation plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Prepare household emergency kits, including potable water, essential medications, and nonperishable food.
- Enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive alerts and messaging from the U.S. Embassy in Lima.
Information Resources:
- SENAMHI National Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología del Perú (National National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru)
- El Peruano Newspaper
- INDECI Instituto Nacional de Defensa Civil (National Institute of Civil Defense)
For Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Lima, Peru
Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n
Santiago de Surco 15023, Lima
+51-1-618-2000
LimaACS@state.gov
https://pe.usembassy.gov - U.S. Consular Agency Cusco
Avenida El Sol 449
Cusco
CuscoACS@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444 - Peru Country Information
- On September 16, 2024, the Department of State launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). To continue receiving alerts, re-enroll at step.state.gov .
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