One person has been confirmed dead in Ecuador, and over 90 ports in Peru were closed due to dangerous waves reaching up to 13 feet. Authorities have evacuated residents from affected beaches, while officials in Peru prepare for continued inclement weather, attributed to distant winds from the US coast.
On Saturday, officials reported the tragic death of one individual in Ecuador, alongside the closure of numerous ports in Peru due to massive waves reaching heights of up to four meters (approximately 13 feet) impacting the region. In an effort to safeguard human life, local authorities declared beaches along the central and northern coastlines of Peru off-limits. As captured in local media, these waves submerged jetties and public squares, prompting residents to evacuate to higher ground for safety.
The recent weather phenomenon affecting Ecuador and Peru has been attributed to large waves generated by persistent winds originating thousands of kilometers away, off the coast of the United States. The National Emergency Operations Center in Peru announced that 91 out of 121 ports would remain closed until January 1. This preventative measure aims to protect both maritime activities and beachgoers from the hazardous conditions posed by the turbulent waves.
This recent coastal disturbance highlights the vulnerabilities faced by residents and infrastructure along the Pacific coast of South America. The unfortunate fatality in Ecuador serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers posed by natural events. Authorities in both countries are prioritizing safety by implementing beach and port closures, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with these massive coastal waves.
Original Source: www.leaderherald.com