Peru faces multi-sectoral impacts from El Niño phenomenon

The El Niño phenomenon is causing widespread socio-economic and environmental challenges across Peru. In Piura, authorities are proposing the use of drones to restore 15,000 hectares of dry forest by aerial seed dispersal, while local farmers warn that 30,000 hectares of crops are at risk due to insufficient dredging and infrastructure maintenance.

In Cusco, a water deficit could affect 1.2 million people, with high risks to 1.6 million hectares of natural pastures. Nationally, potato production fell by 19.6% in July due to unfavorable water conditions and late rains.

Public health risks are also rising, with potential increases in respiratory, gastrointestinal, and vector-borne diseases like dengue. In response, the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion (Midis) is creating a nominal registry to identify vulnerable families for potential direct financial assistance, such as bonuses, should an emergency occur.