Peru declares emergency in 17 regions over water deficit risks

Peru is facing significant environmental and logistical challenges. The government has declared a 60-day state of emergency in 707 districts across 17 regions due to an imminent water deficit expected during the 2026-2027 rainy season. This decision, supported by technical reports from Indeci and Senamhi, aims to mitigate risks to agriculture, livestock, and human consumption caused by the El Niño phenomenon.

In Lima, Sedapal has implemented scheduled water service interruptions in various districts, including Villa María del Triunfo and San Juan de Lurigancho, to perform essential maintenance on distribution networks. Additionally, authorities have warned of the risk of landslides and flash floods (huaicos) in the capital, particularly in Chosica, where 21 ravines are vulnerable to activation due to extreme rainfall.

In Chile, following a recent mudslide in Las Condes that affected over 1,200 people, local authorities have implemented traffic restrictions and suspended municipal volunteer work to facilitate heavy machinery clearing the roads and to prepare for forecasted rains.