Ayacucho region faces deadly cold snap threatening alpacas and residents

A severe cold wave is expected to hit the high Andes of Peru from August 1‑3, with nighttime temperatures dropping to as low as –17 °C in areas above 4,000 m. The forecast covers provinces in the south‑central sierra, including Ayacucho, Arequuca, Cusco, Moquegua, Puno and Tacna. Authorities warned that the abrupt temperature drop, combined with strong winds, could endanger livestock and human health.

In Ayacucho’s southern districts, officials highlighted the risk to more than 27,000 alpacas, as well as sheep and cattle. About 12 % of the camelid population already shows signs of cold‑related stress, and veterinarians warned that repeated frosts followed by warm days can trigger diseases such as enterotoxemia in newborn alpacas. The agricultural sector is also concerned about potential damage to corn crops.

Regional agencies, including the Agencia Agraria de Páucar del Sara Sara, the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (Senamhi) and the Instituto Nacional de Defensa Civil (Indeci), have issued alerts and urged residents to use protective clothing, limit exposure, and secure food and water supplies. A contingency plan for the farming community is being prepared for submission to the regional government and the national executive.