Peru's Navy warns of light waves along coast from August 7-11; prevention measures issued

The Peruvian Navy's Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation (Dihidronav) has issued a warning of light intensity waves expected along Peru's entire coastline between Friday, August 7, and Tuesday, August 11. In response, the National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci) has released a series of preventative measures aimed at minimizing risks for both the public and local authorities.

The forecast indicates variations in the sea's behavior across different coastal stretches. On the northern coast, the light waves are predicted to begin on the afternoon of August 7. Meanwhile, along the central coast, specifically between Salaverry and Chancay, the phenomenon is expected to start earlier in the morning of the same day. The conditions are projected to persist throughout the period in the central-southern stretch, from Chancay to San Juan de Marcona, and will also affect the entire southern coastline.

Indeci strongly urges regional and local governments to disseminate these preventive guidelines widely. The recommendations include avoiding exposure to the sea during the period of heightened wave activity. Furthermore, Indeci advises the temporary suspension of port and fishing activities, securing vessels, or moving smaller boats to shore. It also recommends refraining from water sports and recreational activities near beaches, as well as avoiding camping in coastal areas.

According to the Peruvian Navy, ocean waves are surface disturbances generated primarily by the transfer of energy from wind to water, resulting from the interaction between the atmosphere and the ocean. Authorities are maintaining close monitoring of the sea conditions and are encouraging the public to stay informed through official reports.