Severe flooding damages hundreds of buildings, strands 14 000 people in Piura, Peru

As many as 14 000 people have been cut off after flooding hit the Piura Region in northern Peru, the National Institute of Civil Defence (INDECI) reported on March 2, 2021. Up to 187 homes have been damaged, as well as public buildings and roads.

Intense rains hit the districts of Tambogrande, Las Loma, Chulucanas, and Canchaque, triggering floods that damaged roads, homes, and public buildings. INDECI also reported on March 4 that parts of Mancora and San Miguel de El Faique districts have also been affected. 

A total of 182 homes have been damaged, five destroyed, while three health facilities have also been hit, according to INDECI figures. The worst affected area was Tambogrande, where around 14 000 people have been cut off after roads were inundated in areas around Malingas. 

Up to 96.1 mm (3.8 inches) of rain fell in a 24-period to March 3 in Lancones, while up to 85.4 mm (3.4 inches) was recorded in 24 hours to March 4 in El Partidor, according to the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (SENAMHI).

SENAMHI added that the Piura River has been rising, prompting a Yellow Level alert at the Puente Nacara hydrological station.

"The areas potentially affected by flooding would be the populated centers of Malingas, Pachas, Solsol, and the city of Piura," the agency stated, advising people to take corresponding precautions and avoid any activity near the river.

Featured image credit: Diario Correo