Peru's Amazon faces intense heat with yellow alert issued by Senamhi

The Peruvian Amazon is bracing for intense heat as the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (Senamhi) forecasts daytime temperatures to reach up to 36°C through July 27. A yellow alert has been issued, warning of increased ultraviolet radiation and strong winds across the northern, central, and southern Amazon regions.

Specific departments including Cusco, Huánuco, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Puno, San Martín, and Ucayali will experience these conditions. Senamhi predicts maximum temperatures between 30°C and 36°C in the north, 22°C to 36°C in the central areas, and around 35°C in the south. The forecast also anticipates sparse cloud cover during the day, which will exacerbate UV radiation levels, and wind gusts potentially reaching 45 kilometers per hour in the afternoons.

In response, the National Civil Defense Institute (Indeci) urges residents to take precautions. Recommendations include using sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-filtering sunglasses when outdoors. Indeci also advises staying hydrated, avoiding unrefrigerated food and drinks, and minimizing direct sun exposure during peak hours. These guidelines are crucial for the seven affected departments as the heatwave persists.