Massive waves reaching heights of up to 13 feet (four meters) are wreaking havoc along the coastlines of Peru and Ecuador, prompting officials to take drastic action. The waves began impacting the region around Christmas and are expected to last until January 1. Authorities have reported severe disruptions, closing many ports, with at least one tragic fatality confirmed.
Peru's National Emergency Operations Center announced on Saturday the closure of 91 out of its 121 ports, as entire stretches of coastline faced the threat of flooding and structural damage. "These waves are being generated thousands of kilometers away from Peru, off the coast of the United States," explained Navy Captain Enrique Varea during an interview with Channel N television, noting the phenomenon is caused by persistent winds along the ocean's surface.
Throughout the day, beaches along the central and northern regions of Peru saw closure notices posted as local authorities aimed to mitigate risks to human life. Videos broadcast across social media showed jetties and public squares submerged, with locals fleeing to higher ground to escape the powerful surges.
Similar reports emerged from neighboring Ecuador, where the National Secretariat for Risk Management disclosed the recovery of a body in Manta. "The Manta Fire Department reported... the body of a missing person was found lifeless in the Barbasquillo sector," officials noted on social media at around 6:00 AM on Saturday.
The waves have decimated small fishing boats and halted local businesses reliant on maritime activities. Beach closures have left the fishing community grappling with uncertain conditions. "None of the fishermen can go out to sea," said Juan Ore, 60, reflecting the frustrations many face. The current weather has stranded many vessels, with local services unable to assist those caught within the furious swells.
Thirty-one fishermen were rescued by the navy on Saturday, but reports highlighted around 180 others remained adrift, desperately short of supplies. One fisherman shared his distress, stating, "There are no more supplies, no water. Our brothers and sisters are practically adrift," during a broadcast on local radio Exitosa.
Local officials, including La Cruz district mayor Roberto Carrillo Zavala, expressed grave concerns about the economic impact of the waves, particularly on the fishing industry. “There is a major problem,” he stated after conducting aerial surveys of the damage. “The most affected have been the fishermen. We hope nothing more happens, as this would significantly impact the economy.”
The situation was mirrored along the coast of Chile, where reports emerged of similarly massive waves crashing against the shoreline, triggering warnings from authorities there as well.
According to local meteorological data and tracking, these abnormal waves and rough seas are expected to persist until at least December 29, particularly along the affected parts of the Ecuadorian and Peruvian coastlines. Concerns linger for the welfare of local populations as clean-up efforts are anticipated to commence once conditions improve.