What is the location of the flooding?
As of February 24, 2026, heavy, persistent rainfall linked to an atypical weather pattern has caused widespread flooding across southern Peru, particularly in the Arequipa region, and triggered flash floods that extended to parts of the central coast and Lima metropolitan area.
Torrential storms have overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems, affecting both urban centers and rural valleys in the south and west of the country (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
Flooding and related impacts have been reported across multiple Peruvian regions:
- Arequipa – severe flash flooding across valleys and river basins.
- Lima metropolitan area – heavy rainfall caused urban inundation and transport disruption.
- Moquegua and Tacna regions also saw intense downpours and flash floods.
- Smaller towns and coastal communities have faced sudden flood surges from swollen waterways.
Across these areas, saturated hillsides and swollen rivers have disrupted roads, damaged homes, and prompted mass displacement.
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
Containment and emergency response efforts are underway, with national and local authorities mobilizing to assist affected communities. Floodwaters have repeatedly cut key highways, and several bridges were reported damaged or collapsed in torrent-hit valleys (2).
Rescue teams have been deployed for evacuations and to deliver aid, though continued rain has slowed recovery operations. Officials expect conditions to gradually improve as the storm system weakens, but residual high water levels remain a risk (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Officials issued weather and flood alerts for the southern and coastal regions as heavy rain persisted. Residents in high-risk areas, particularly along riverbanks and floodplains, have been urged to evacuate and seek higher ground (4).
Thousands sought shelter in local facilities as authorities prioritized the safety of vulnerable families. Continued monitoring and updated warnings remain essential as flash flood risks persist.
How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
