Massive waves up to four meters high have affected Ecuador and Peru, closing ports and leading to at least one death. Authorities report extensive flooding and evacuations, with the Peruvian Navy rescuing stranded fishermen amid dangerous sea conditions. The phenomenon is attributed to winds off the US coast, and local authorities are taking measures to protect residents and respond to the economic impact on the fishing community.
A series of massive waves reaching heights of up to four meters have caused significant disruptions along the coasts of Ecuador and Peru, leading to the closure of numerous ports and resulting in at least one confirmed fatality. On Saturday, authorities reported that public areas and jetties in several regions of Peru were flooded, prompting evacuations to higher ground. The Peruvian Navy attributes these waves to winds generated off the coast of the United States, which are impacting the ocean’s surface.
In response to the perilous conditions, authorities have closed many beaches in central and northern Peru to safeguard lives. While many fishing boats sustained damage, the few remaining operational vessels were unable to work due to dangerous sea conditions. A rescue operation conducted by the navy successfully retrieved 31 fishermen from the choppy waters; however, reports indicate that approximately 180 others remain stranded at sea.
The situation is dire, with one fisherman describing crucial shortages, stating, “There are no more supplies, no water. Our brothers and sisters are practically adrift.” On the Ecuadorian side, local authorities in the coastal city of Manta reported the recovery of a lifeless body, indicating that the impact of the waves is being felt across borders.
The phenomenon has also led to warnings in Chile, where authorities noted significant wave activity along the central coast. The National Emergency Operations Centre of Peru indicated that a total of 91 out of 121 ports would remain closed until January 1, reflecting the extensive impact of the rough seas. In districts like Callao, closest to the capital Lima, major disruptions have been noted in fishing activities, with the local mayor expressing concern over the economic implications for fishermen in the area.
According to navy Captain Enrique Varea, the extraordinary wave activity is due to persistent winds from thousands of kilometers away, approaching the Peruvian coastline. Experts anticipate that this hazardous situation will continue until January 1, further straining local resources and communities during this critical period.
Massive waves along the coasts of Ecuador and Peru have emerged as a result of meteorological phenomena stemming from strong winds off the coast of the United States. This natural occurrence has led to beach closures and port shutdowns aimed at mitigating risks to human life. The effects of these waves have extended to fishing communities, causing significant damage to local economies that depend heavily on the sea for livelihoods. The potential for further storms and hazardous conditions has prompted authorities to issue warnings and take preemptive actions to safeguard residents and maritime activities.
In summary, the coastal regions of Ecuador and Peru are currently facing severe challenges due to extraordinary wave conditions that have resulted in at least one fatality and widespread port closures. The Peruvian navy has reported that the waves are a byproduct of distant winds, posing a significant threat to the safety of local fishermen and coastal communities. Authorities are taking necessary actions to ensure public safety while monitoring the evolving situation closely.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae