Severe Coastal Waves Claim Three Lives and Disrupt Maritime Activities

Formidable waves of up to 13 feet have devastated coasts in Peru, Ecuador, and Chile, leading to three fatalities and nearly 100 port closures. The Peruvian navy attributes the waves to US coast winds, and while conditions may calm, significant economic impacts on the fishing industry are noted, with many fishermen affected.

Recently, formidable waves, some reaching heights of up to 13 feet (4 meters), have wreaked havoc across the coastlines of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. These extreme weather conditions have resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and the closure of nearly 100 ports due to unsafe maritime situations. In Ecuador’s southwestern region of Manta, two fatalities have been reported. Compounding this disaster, a 30-year-old man was pronounced dead on a beach in Chile.

In Peru, the situation persists with almost all ports being temporarily shut down. The naval Oceanographic Department’s Enrique Varea informed Canal N that while the massive waves are likely to continue, signs of relief may emerge starting Monday, with a return to normalcy anticipated by early January. The Peruvian navy attributes these hazardous conditions to winds originating from the US coastline, consequently submerging jetties and public squares in certain areas and compelling residents to seek higher ground.

Local fishermen have faced dire consequences, as numerous vessels have been damaged or destroyed, leaving many unable to operate under these precarious conditions. The navy managed to rescue 31 stranded fishermen; however, approximately 180 others remain unaccounted for at sea. To mitigate any potential further casualties, authorities have enacted beach closures and restricted public access. In Callao, close to Lima, officials have prohibited tourists from accessing the beaches.

Roberto Carrillo Zavala, the mayor of the La Cruz district, along with Defense Minister Walter Astudillo Chavez, conducted an assessment of the damage. Mayor Carrillo emphasized the severe economic burden placed on the fishing industry due to this natural disaster. The National Emergency Operations Center in Peru indicated that this hazardous phenomenon commenced on Christmas and is predicted to persist until January 1.

The recent catastrophic waves affecting the coastal regions of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile have raised concerns among local authorities regarding extreme weather phenomena. Such occurrences highlight the vulnerability of these regions to natural disasters, particularly in relation to maritime safety and economic stability. The ongoing impact has rendered many fishermen’s livelihoods precarious, with closures of ports and beaches exacerbating the situation.

In summary, the devastating wave events along the coastlines of Peru, Ecuador, and Chile have resulted in the loss of three lives and significant disruptions to maritime and fishing operations. Closure of nearly 100 ports, restrictions on public access to beaches, and the rescue efforts for stranded fishermen underscore the severity of the ongoing crisis. Local authorities continue to assess the aftermath, raising critical awareness about the economic impacts on the fishing industry.

Original Source: newscentral.africa