At least 3 dead as heavy rains continue to batter Peru, around 300 homes damaged in flash floods and landslides

At least three people were confirmed dead in Peru on February 18, 2020, as heavy downpour continues to strike the country. About 300 homes were also damaged in flash floods and landslides sparked by the torrential rains.

Two of the fatalities were reported in Sandia Province in the region of Puno, while the third victim was in Victor Fajardo Province in the region of Ayacucho, where over 200 families have been displaced after rains triggered a landslide. 

In Puno, rivers burst their banks on February 9, inflicting damage to at least 150 homes in Asillo District, according to the National Emergency Operations Center (COEN).

Adding to the damaged structures were three bridges and swaths of agricultural land. Just days later, the swollen Rio Grande de Sina swept away a small bridge in San Antonio de Putina province.

On February 14, flooding raged across Sandia, destroying a house in San Pedro de Putina Punco. Homes were also affected in the Limbani district, displacing 14 households.

More rivers overflowed in the district, affecting 120 more families and displacing 30 households.

Image credit: National Police of Peru

Image credit: National Police of Peru

Image credit: National Police of Peru

In Ayacucho, at least 268 people were displaced as flash flooding and landslides struck. A creek broke its banks, triggering a mudslide in the town of Cocas, Vilanchos district, on February 15.

COEN said 33 houses were totally ravaged, while 34 homes sustained severe damages.

According to DG Echo on February 18, moderate to locally heavy rain is expected over southeast Peru, particularly over the Puno region, over the next 24 hours.

The National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (SENAMHI) has also issued an orange alert for heavy rain over parts of the country including the southern, central west, and northeast.

Featured image credit: National Police of Peru