Peru’s authorities shut 58 ports in a new development due to odd wave patterns on the central and northern coasts.
These waves vary from mild to strong. The closure, which includes more than half of Peru’s ports, will last until January 7th.
The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) confirmed this yesterday. They shared the news on their social media account X.
The Navy’s General Directorate of Captaincies and Coast Guard made this closure decision. NEOC provided these details.
They also reported that the closed ports are in specific regions. These include Tumbes, Piura, Lima, the Callao Province, Ica, and Áncash.
There are 33 ports in the north and 25 in the central coast.
Giacomo Morote, the Navy’s Oceanography Head, explained the wave’s origin. He said they are not from ocean warming.
Instead, they are due to storms near California, USA. These storms are happening because it’s now winter in the northern hemisphere.
The resulting waves crossed the Pacific Ocean. They reached Peru’s shores on December 30th. Their impact is expected until Sunday.
The National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci) responded to these events. They advised local authorities to guide the public.
This guidance is to help people stay safe. Indeci suggests avoiding areas affected by the waves. This measure will help prevent injuries and damage.
Indeci also recommended stopping port and fishing activities. They advise securing boats or moving smaller ones to safer areas.
Lastly, they suggest avoiding water sports and beach activities while the waves persist.