Severe 13-foot waves along Ecuador and Peru coasts resulted in two deaths and port closures. Authorities warn of continued extreme conditions linked to climate change. Fishermen face significant losses, with many boats damaged or lost. Rescue operations are underway for stranded individuals as local economies brace for impact.
Severe ocean conditions have resulted in waves reaching heights of 13 feet (approximately four meters) along the coasts of Ecuador and Peru, leading to the closure of numerous ports and the unfortunate loss of two lives. According to Ecuador’s risk management secretary, Jorge Carillo, this phenomenon is considered an “extreme event,” with warnings issued regarding the likelihood of similar incidents in the future. The fatalities were reported in Ecuador’s southwestern Manta area.
In Peru, almost all ports are closed due to the relentless waves, as confirmed by Enrique Varea, the head of the Naval Oceanographic Department. He indicated that while the large waves are expected to persist for some days, a gradual return to normal conditions is projected for early January. Furthermore, the Civil Defense unit in Callao highlighted that climate change factors may be contributing to these anomalous wave patterns.
Local media images display submerged public areas in Peru, prompting residents to evacuate to higher ground. The Peruvian navy has reported that the waves are emanating from winds along the US coast, resulting in significant damage to fishing vessels, with estimates indicating that around 100 boats have been lost. Notably, thirty-one fishermen were rescued from treacherous seas, while many others remain unaccounted for.
The event, which initiated on Christmas Day, is poised to continue until January 1, as stated by Peru’s National Emergency Operations Center. The impact on local fishing industries has been profound, and calls for assistance have been made by affected individuals.
The recent wave activity off the coasts of Ecuador and Peru has been characterized by unusually high swells, leading to significant safety hazards for both residents and maritime operations. Experts attribute these extreme weather phenomena to climate change, which is believed to be intensifying ocean conditions. This situation has particularly impacted the fishing community, causing both loss of life and damage to livelihoods, underscoring the ongoing implications of environmental changes on local economies.
In summary, the coastal regions of Ecuador and Peru are experiencing severe wave activity resulting in at least two confirmed fatalities and widespread port closures. The situation highlights the vulnerabilities of coastal communities to climate-related phenomena. Authorities are actively managing the response while evaluating the long-term implications for local economies, particularly among affected fishermen.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
