The heavy rains that have affected northern and central Peru have caused a large number of deaths and injuries. So far, 50 deaths have been reported; 8,000 people have been affected; more than 50,000 people have been affected; 1,300 houses have been destroyed; and 640 kilometers of roads have been affected. Authorities remain on alert as rains are expected to continue during the weekend in the northern coast and highlands of the country.
Rains are expected in 409 districts along the country’s northern coast and highlands, according to the National Center for Disaster Risk Estimation, Prevention, and Reduction (Cenepred), and precautions have been taken to avoid disasters. Peru’s president, Dina Boluarte, has announced that she will present a bill to Congress for the creation of a national infrastructure authority to be in charge of the necessary works to control river basins, such as that of the Rimac river, which crosses the center of Lima and is at high risk due to the current rainfall.
The creation of this authority would allow the implementation of preventive measures and work to reduce risks in vulnerable areas in the event of heavy rains. The authorities seek to minimize the impact of natural disasters on the population, avoiding loss of life and destruction of infrastructure. The current situation in Peru is worrisome, and it is expected that the authorities will take effective measures to prevent future disasters.