Big waves reaching 13 feet are affecting Ecuador and Peru, closing ports and resulting in at least two deaths. An “extreme event” has been declared, with expectations of ongoing wave activity but improvement by January. Climate change is attributed to the phenomenon, severely impacting local fishermen and prompting urgent appeals for aid.
Large waves measuring up to 13 feet are striking the coasts of Ecuador and Peru, resulting in significant disruptions, including the closure of numerous ports. Tragically, two fatalities have been reported in Ecuador’s Manta region. Officials have termed this occurrence an “extreme event” and anticipate similar incidents in the future. In Peru, authorities closed most ports due to the relentless onslaught of waves, with expectations that conditions may normalize gradually starting Monday. Climate change has been identified as a major contributing factor to these anomalous wave patterns, as opined by officials from Peru’s Civil Defense unit. The repercussions have been severe for local fishermen, many of whom have sustained losses to their vessels and livelihoods, prompting urgent calls for assistance.
The occurrence of intense waves along the Pacific coasts of Ecuador and Peru is a phenomenon linked to severe weather conditions exacerbated by climate change. Such fluctuations in oceanic behavior can result from various factors, including wind patterns across the ocean surface, which has been noted by the Peruvian navy. Both nations have heightened their preparedness in light of increasing climate-related threats. Fishing communities, which significantly depend on favorable weather for their economic activities, are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of these extreme weather events.
In summary, the recent extreme wave event off the coasts of Ecuador and Peru has led to tragic losses and widespread disruption, particularly affecting the fishing industry. Authorities predict that the danger will persist in the short term but hope for a return to normalcy by early January. The underlying role of climate change in these phenomena underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in coastal regions.
Original Source: www.elpasoinc.com
