On March 5, 2025, a State of Emergency was declared in multiple districts of Peru due to severe flooding caused by intense rainfall. Tumbes has been the hardest hit, with over 8,000 individuals affected. Other regions, including Piura and Lima, are also facing challenges as rainfall persists, necessitating humanitarian assistance.
On March 5, 2025, Supreme Decree No. 026-2025-PCM was released, establishing a State of Emergency in numerous districts across various provinces in Peru, including Amazonas, Lima, and Piura. This declaration was prompted by widespread damage from severe rainfall. The State of Emergency combines both preventive and reactive measures to address the evolving situation caused by heavy precipitation.
In Tumbes, the decree was issued following significant damage to infrastructure and local populations due to intense rainfall. Other regions are currently experiencing ongoing rainfall, resulting in an escalating potential for future impacts, as indicated by SENAMHI. Preliminary evaluations show differing levels of damage across affected areas; for instance, heavy rains in Piura on February 27 impacted 606 individuals, displaced 65 people, and caused significant structural damage.
Reports of damage continue to emerge as the crisis unfolds. However, the overall impact appears to be less severe in districts beyond Tumbes, which has seen over 8,000 individuals affected. This region has been identified as possessing the greatest necessity for humanitarian assistance. Notably, since February 22, intensified precipitation along Peru’s northern coast has been attributed to the weakening of the South Pacific Anticyclone, contributing to these adverse conditions.
In summary, the recent floods in Peru have led to a State of Emergency across multiple provinces, with Tumbes experiencing the most significant impact. Ongoing assessments reveal varying levels of damage, particularly in areas like Piura. The humanitarian needs are substantial, particularly in the most affected regions, highlighting the urgent requirement for assistance as rainfall continues to pose threats throughout the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int