Peru on alert for heavy rains, with 250 districts at risk of mudslides

Peru faces a heightened risk of natural disasters as heavy rains are forecast for Monday, June 15th. A report from the National Center for Estimation, Prevention, and Disaster Risk Reduction (Cenepred) warns that 250 districts across the northern and central highlands, as well as the northern coast, are vulnerable to mudslides, landslides, and other mass movements.

This alert stems from Meteorological Notice N.° 233 issued by the National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi), which predicts light to moderate rainfall in various parts of the country. Authorities are strongly advising the public and local governments to bolster their preventive measures in response to the potential threat.

The Áncash department bears the brunt of the risk, with 54 districts classified as having a very high risk level. Cajamarca follows with 41 at-risk districts, along with Piura (17), Lima (12), and Lambayeque (3). An additional 123 districts in these regions are categorized as having a high risk of landslides or collapses triggered by the anticipated rainfall.

The National Civil Defense Institute (Indeci) has called upon regional and local governments to inspect evacuation routes, ensuring they are clear and well-marked for rapid emergency response. They also recommended verifying the operational status of health centers, fire stations, and police posts in vulnerable areas. Indeci further advised residents to reinforce their homes' roofs and coordinate with local authorities to implement early warning systems, such as whistles, bells, or sirens, to alert communities about impending mudslides or landslides.