Massive waves up to 13 feet have devastated the coastlines of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile, leading to three deaths and nearly 100 port closures. In Ecuador, two fatalities were reported in Manta, while a man died in Chile. The Peruvian navy has shut down nearly all ports and assisted fishermen amid the crisis, which began on Christmas and is expected to continue until January.
Massive waves, some reaching heights of 13 feet (4 meters), have wreaked havoc along the coasts of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile, leading to three fatalities and nearly 100 port closures due to hazardous conditions. In Ecuador, Jorge Carillo, Secretary for Risk Management, termed this event an extreme phenomenon, cautioning citizens about future occurrences. The southwestern region of Manta in Ecuador reported two casualties, while a similar tragic incident was confirmed in Chile, where the navy discovered the body of a 30-year-old man on a beach.
In Peru, the situation remains dire as nearly all ports have been closed in response to relentless wave impacts. According to Enrique Varea, head of the Naval Oceanographic Department, although these dangerous waves are expected to continue, a gradual calming trend may begin on Monday, with a return to normal conditions anticipated by early January. He indicated that these massive waves are primarily attributed to winds originating from the American coast, which have resulted in severe flooding of jetties and public squares in several areas, compelling residents to evacuate to higher ground.
The fishing sector has endured substantial losses due to this natural disaster. Numerous fishing vessels have been heavily damaged or destroyed, while those that remain are unable to operate in the perilous conditions. The navy has reportedly rescued 31 fishermen stranded due to the waves, but approximately 180 others are still unaccounted for at sea. To prevent further fatalities, authorities have imposed restrictions on several beaches and limited public access.
In Callao, located near Lima, Peru’s capital, officials have closed beaches and dissuaded tourists from venturing out. Mayor Roberto Carrillo Zavala of the La Cruz district, along with Defense Minister Walter Astudillo Chavez, assessed the damages and highlighted the profound economic repercussions the fishing industry is facing. The National Emergency Operations Center of Peru has confirmed that this exceptional phenomenon commenced on Christmas and is expected to persist until January 1.
The powerful waves impacting the coastal regions of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile are a significant meteorological phenomenon, related to unusual wind patterns. This event has prompted authorities to close ports, restrict beach access, and mobilize rescue operations due to the resultant hazards. The economic ramifications are particularly severe for local fishing communities that have been devastated by the loss of vessels and operational capabilities. Maritime safety concerns have risen sharply in response to this natural disaster, leading to government intervention.
The recent severe weather events have resulted in tragic consequences, including three fatalities and significant economic impact on coastal communities in Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. With waves reaching up to 13 feet, local authorities are grappling with extensive damage and threatening conditions for fishermen. As safety measures are implemented to mitigate risks, ongoing monitoring will be crucial as weather conditions evolve in the coming days and weeks.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
