Peru Hit By Massive 13-Foot-High Waves, Leaving Scores Of Ports Closed

Peru’s Ports Shuttered as Massive Waves Batter the Coastline

Peru’s coastal regions are reeling from the impact of powerful waves reaching up to 13 feet (4 meters), causing authorities to close a significant number of the country’s ports. On Saturday, Peru’s National Emergency Operations Centre reported that 91 of the nation’s 121 ports had been shut down until January 1, 2025, as the massive waves continued to strike the coastline.

Callao, the largest port city in the country, located just outside the capital Lima, has seen several beaches closed and a ban placed on tourist and fishing boats. The city’s critical port, which handles much of Peru’s maritime trade, has been particularly affected by the dangerous conditions.

Closure of Beaches and Fishing Boats Halted

Many of Peru’s central and northern beaches have also been closed to ensure public safety. The government has taken these measures to prevent human casualties and to protect fishing boats, which are unable to venture out safely into the tumultuous waters. The situation has devastated local fishing communities, with dozens of boats either damaged or forced to remain docked due to the rough seas.

The damage has disrupted livelihoods and strained local industries, as fishing is a key part of the economy in these coastal areas. The authorities have warned that conditions are too perilous for any maritime activity, including tourism, until the waves subside.

Powerful Waves Linked to U.S. Coastal Winds

According to the Peruvian Navy, the waves hitting the country’s coast are being generated by winds blowing across the ocean’s surface, originating from the U.S. coastline. These winds have intensified the waves as they travel toward Peru, wreaking havoc along the country’s extensive coastline.

The authorities are monitoring the situation closely, but the damage caused by these extraordinary waves has already disrupted daily life and business. As the waves continue to pound the coast, more ports may remain closed for an extended period, affecting both the fishing and shipping industries.