High Waves Cause 2 Lives Lost, Peru Closes 91 Ports!

Kapanlagi.com - Terrifying waves up to four meters high struck the coasts of Peru and Ecuador, causing significant damage and claiming lives. In the Manta region of Ecuador, two people were reported dead, while a man in Chile also fell victim to this dreadful phenomenon.

In a swift response, Peruvian authorities were forced to close 91 ports to protect public safety. The impact of these high waves is deeply felt, especially in the fishing and tourism sectors. Many fishermen lost their boats, and coastal residents had to evacuate to safer locations.

Unfortunately, these high waves are predicted to continue until the new year, adding to concerns about more severe damage. Experts link this phenomenon to climate change and strong winds affecting the Pacific Ocean.

The local government is not standing still; they continue to work on rescue efforts and provide assistance to the affected communities. Let’s take a closer look at this situation summarized from abc.net.au and other reliable sources.

1. Chronology of High Waves

Since December 25, 2024, the Pacific Ocean has been shaken by a phenomenon of high waves caused by strong winds reported by the Peruvian Navy, peaking towards the end of the year. In a horrifying tragedy, Jorge Carillo, Secretary of Risk Management of Ecuador, revealed that two lives were lost in Manta.

Meanwhile, in Chile, a 30-year-old man also fell victim to the ferocity of the big waves. As a preventive measure, the Peruvian government took decisive action by closing nearly all ports along the coast to reduce risks threatening public safety.

2. Impact on Society and Infrastructure

The high waves crashing on the coast have transformed the face of docks and public squares in various cities, with Callao in Peru being one of the hardest-hit areas. In this frightening situation, the Peruvian Navy successfully rescued 31 fishermen, but unfortunately, 180 others remain trapped in the raging sea.

The fishing sector has also suffered significant damage, with more than 100 fishing boats destroyed, resulting in a bitter impact for hundreds of families who depend on this livelihood. One fisherman even expressed how terrifying these waves were, calling them the "most unusual and powerful" he had ever experienced in his life.

3. Government Response and Rescue

The government of Peru did not remain silent in the face of this disaster; they quickly deployed the Navy and emergency service teams to carry out crucial rescue operations. In this urgent atmosphere, warnings of danger continue to be conveyed to the public to remain vigilant. Amid the panic, the Mayor of La Cruz, Roberto Carrillo Zavala, expressed his deep concern regarding the economic impact, especially for the fishing sector, which is the backbone of many of its citizens' livelihoods.

4. Causes and Triggering Factors

Experts link this shocking phenomenon to strong winds originating from the Pacific Ocean, specifically off the coast of the United States. Moreover, the increasingly severe climate change is also exacerbating the situation by increasing the intensity of the extreme waves that hit. Enrique Varea from the Peruvian Navy projects that these high waves will begin to subside in early January 2025, providing hope amid the prevailing concerns.

5. Long-term Impact

This disaster has shaken the economy, particularly in the fisheries and tourism sectors. Fishermen have had to bear concerning losses due to their destroyed boats, while the once-bustling beach attractions are now quiet due to sudden closures. It is estimated that the total economic losses from this disaster reach staggering figures, amounting to millions of dollars.

6. What causes high waves in Peru?

The high waves crashing onto the shore are a result of strong winds in the Pacific Ocean, further exacerbated by the impacts of global climate change. This natural phenomenon not only challenges the forces of nature but also reminds us of the urgency to maintain the balance of an increasingly disturbed ecosystem.

7. How long will this phenomenon last?

The extreme waves currently affecting the area are predicted to continue until early January 2025, leaving many people with questions and concerns. This phenomenon is not just a weather event, but a challenge that forces us to prepare for various possibilities that lie ahead.

8. What is the impact of this disaster on the economic sector?

This disaster has severely hit the fishing and tourism sectors, forcing many fishermen to give up their boats, while tourists have also retreated, canceling long-awaited vacation plans.

9. What steps has the Peruvian government taken?

The Peruvian government has taken decisive action by closing 91 ports while issuing warnings to the public to remain vigilant. In this urgent situation, they have also launched rescue operations to protect the safety of citizens. This decision demonstrates the government's commitment to facing challenges and ensuring public safety amid uncertain conditions.

(kpl/srr)