Arequipa Floods: President Admits Lack of Awareness, Emergency Declared & Response Efforts Begin

Peru Grapples with Widespread Flooding and Landslides, State of Emergency Declared

Peru is facing a mounting crisis as heavy rainfall continues to trigger devastating floods and landslides across much of the country. As of February 24, 2026, authorities are scrambling to respond to the escalating situation, with a state of emergency already in effect across numerous districts.

The southern city of Arequipa is particularly hard hit. Recent reports indicate the Arequipa airport has been closed for 12 days due to severe weather conditions. Presidente Lizardo Balcázar reportedly stated he was only recently informed of the extent of the damage in Arequipa, learning of the situation “just now from you,” according to La República.

The scale of the disaster is significant. According to a UNICEF flash update from February 20, 2025, heavy rains have caused landslides and river flooding affecting 20 of Peru’s 24 regions. A total of 1,771 emergency events have been reported nationwide through the National Information System for Response and Rehabilitation (SINPAD). The National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI) reports that as of February 17, 2025, more than 57,000 people have been affected, including an estimated 17,000 children and tragically, 7 deaths have been confirmed.

The damage to infrastructure is extensive. Over 27,000 houses, 79 classrooms, and 14 health centers have been damaged or destroyed. More than 1 million meters of urban and local roads, along with over 200 bridges, have also been impacted. These disruptions are hindering rescue efforts and limiting access to essential services like running water and electricity.

The situation is particularly dire for communities reliant on agriculture, as crops are being destroyed by the relentless rainfall and flooding, raising concerns about food security. The approaching school year adds another layer of complexity, with access to education for children and adolescents uncertain due to the ongoing weather conditions and damage to school buildings.

Regional authorities are working to provide assistance. In Arequipa, multiple refuges are being opened, as announced by regional Governor Dr. Rohel Sánchez Sánchez. The government has also pledged a swift response to maintain road connectivity in the region, according to the Peruvian News Agency (ANDINA).

Recent incidents highlight the immediate danger faced by residents. Peru 21 reported that a woman narrowly avoided being swept away by a *huaico* (mudflow) in Arequipa while filming the emergency. El Comercio Perú described the situation as an “imminent catastrophe.”

The current crisis builds on previous severe weather events. In November 2025, Peru was impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which triggered floods, landslides, and power outages, leading to the evacuation of approximately 1.4 million people. That typhoon followed closely on the heels of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which caused nearly 200 deaths in the Philippines and five in Vietnam.

A state of emergency was initially declared in 157 districts across 20 regions by Supreme Decree Nº021-2025-PCM. Huancavelica, located in the Andes, is currently the most affected region, and the National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (SENAMHI) warns that conditions throughout the Andes are expected to worsen in the coming days.

The government has declared a 60-day state of emergency across 338 districts in 20 regions, including Lima and Callao, to expedite action to reduce risks and address immediate needs. Local and regional governments are coordinating with the National Institute of Civil Defense to manage the response.