Deadly, “Tsunami-Like” Waves Slam Peru (Video)

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Dec 31, 2024 3:21 PM ET

Scenes of destruction are pouring in from Peru, as abnormally large surf – with some reports calling the waves “13-foot” and even “tsunami-like” – slammed the coast on Friday, December 27th.

The epicenter of the carnage occurred in the northern region of Peru, some 700 miles from the capital of Lima, including the coastal communities of Lobitos, Mancora, and Cabo Blanco. However, surrounding areas and countries like Ecuador and Chile have also been impacted by what local officials are deeming an “extreme [weather] event.” Three deaths have been recorded so far.

Primarily, local fishermen have been affected by the large swell, with video footage showing large waves plowing through congested ports, capsizing numerous vessels in their path.

The oversized swell devastation came just a day after Peru declared an environmental emergency due to an oil spill, which also affected the country’s northern region. Preliminary reports estimate that some 10,000 square meters have been involved in the spill, with crude oil showing up on at least seven beaches, and harming local wildlife.

In the wake of the back-to-back catastrophes, local Peruvian Sebastian Sulca Cordova told The Independent:

“The houses are not damaged, but the boats are. There are boats that are tied together and lost. We are trying to help find and track what is submerged and get the engines out, which is the most important thing. There are entire boats underwater. Yesterday we turned over three boats and took out two engines. Even the water is contaminated with oil and we do what we can and what is within our reach.”

Officials are urging caution with regards to the dangerous swells through the first days of January.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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