Anomalous waves create large sinkhole in San Bartolo malecón, emergency repairs underway

Anomalous ocean waves have severely damaged the malecón in San Bartolo, Peru, creating a significant sinkhole along the Rivera Norte Baja promenade. The erosion has affected an estimated 105 to 120 meters of the roadway, posing a risk to residents and drivers. In response, the Municipal District of San Bartolo has declared a state of emergency to expedite repair efforts and ensure public safety.

Access to the North Beach has been temporarily closed to vehicular traffic since Wednesday, June 3, while emergency work is conducted. Engineers assessing the damage noted that the sea has progressively eroded the ground beneath the surface, necessitating reinforcement of the retaining wall. Main construction is expected to begin once the ocean swells subside, with completion anticipated in the first days of July.

Residents have expressed growing concern over the worsening erosion, particularly noting the collapse of a section of asphalt on the previous Sunday. They highlighted that the problem intensifies during winter months when tides and wave action increase. The closure of the road has also created logistical challenges, preventing waste collection trucks from accessing the area and potentially hindering emergency vehicle access.

To accelerate the recovery, the Ministry of Housing will provide heavy machinery for a month to assist with moving rocks. Support from private companies is also expected to bolster coastal protection and restore safety conditions in the district. The municipality aims to reinforce the coastal defenses and ensure the long-term stability of the malecón.

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This is growing as the tides come in. Right now, in winter, the tide usually rises and the big waves come.