DANA Bertha: Which Regions in Peru Will Experience Rain, Snow, and Hail?

Peru is preparing for a new meteorological event, DANA Bertha, which is forecast to bring significant weather changes, including rain, snow, hail, and sleet, to the central and southern highlands.

This new DANA, following the recent DANA Aníbal which caused intense rains and strong winds, is expected to generate greater instability in the country's higher altitude regions. The Peruvian National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (Senamhi) has issued alerts, warning of these conditions and advising the public to stay informed.

The affected areas include the high Andean regions of central and southern Peru, with specific departments such as Áncash, Apurímac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Cusco, Huancavelica, Junín, La Libertad, Lima, Moquegua, Pasco, Puno, and Tacna expected to experience the phenomena. Senamhi has active meteorological advisories in place, N.° 331 and N.° 334 for precipitation, and N.° 333 for increased winds in the sierra.

Bertha, initially identified as a cold trough, has evolved into a DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos - Isolated Depression at High Levels). This atmospheric condition occurs when cold air at upper levels interacts with warmer, more humid air below, leading to instability and various forms of precipitation. Senamhi emphasizes that each DANA event is unique, with its trajectory and intensity depending on atmospheric conditions and interactions with other weather systems.

Following DANA Aníbal, which led to emergency declarations in several districts due to damage from heavy rains and strong winds, Peru is monitoring Bertha closely. Senamhi continues to track the system's evolution and urges the public to follow official channels and local authorities' guidance.