Publication Date March 20, 2017 | International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

More than 625,000 affected by severe flooding in northern Peru

Peru

Tens of thousands of people are homeless, hundreds of thousands affected and dozens have been killed in the worst flooding to hit Peru in decades.

According to Peru’s National Institute of Civil Defence (INDECI), 75 people have died and over 625,000 are affected, including more than 70,000 who have lost their homes. The flooding, which started four days ago, is the result of record downpours that have engorged rivers, triggered landslides and wiped away people, crops and buildings.

Heavy rains are expected to continue until at least April.

The Peru Red Cross has activated emergency teams in Santa Ana, Chiclayo, Chimbo, San Jacinto and Tambo, areas affected by the floods and mudslides. Initial, rapid assessments from these teams indicate priority needs include shelter, water and sanitation, livelihood and food security support, and emergency healthcare with an emphasis on vector control and responding to water-borne diseases. The volunteers are also providing first aid, pre-hospital assistance and helping people connect with their families i

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is monitoring the situation closely with the Peruvian Red Cross, and is ready to offer support.

“The first assessments from the Red Cross on the ground show that damage has been incredibly severe. Many people have lost everything. They will need support to rebuild their lives,” says Walter Cotte, IFRC’s Regional Director for the Americas.

“Peruvian Red Cross staff and volunteers are well-prepared and trained for this kind of situation. But this is unlike anything northern Peru has seen since at least the late 1990s. If international support is needed, we stand ready.”