Peruvian coast rocked by severe waves, 91 ports shut down
Tsunami hits the coast of Peru. High waves have led to the closure of 91 ports. Coastal areas have been devastated by the impact of the sea. Several-metre-high waves have affected the beaches of Zorritos, Máncora, Lobitos, El Ñuro, Cabo Blanco, the port of Callao, and Ancón, among others.
Since Friday, the northern coasts of Peru have been experiencing unusually high waves. The waves have damaged and sunk fishing boats.
Social media videos show how the waves sweep away vessels and flood the streets. A ban on going out to sea is in effect in the regions of Piura and Tumbes.
High waves in Peru as ports close
In the town of Talara, over a hundred fishermen were stranded at sea due to adverse conditions. The high waves prevented them from safely returning to port.
On Saturday, after two days adrift, a group of 30 fishermen was successfully rescued by personnel from the Peruvian Navy in the border area of northern Peru. However, there are still many vessels at sea that cannot dock onshore.
The port authorities have not yet implemented a rescue plan. Many fishermen were at sea when the waves hit. They need assistance returning to dry land. Fortunately, there are no reports of injuries.
However, residents of Tumbes and Piura are being affected. The sea conditions prevent them from conducting fishing activities and have destroyed their boats.
The Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation of the Peruvian Navy issued a final alert, indicating that this phenomenon will continue until January 2025. Until then, 91 ports on the Peruvian coast will be closed. Local authorities are therefore urging the public to stay out of the sea and follow safety recommendations.
The Peruvian Navy, in a report on Friday, warns that the waves may persist until Wednesday, affecting more coastal areas. The situation is being monitored, and residents are urged to exercise caution.
