12:20 | Tumbes (Tumbes region), Mar. 5.
The overflowing of Tumbes River is already
affecting several agricultural areas in the region of the same name, mainly in Pampa Grande, San Jacinto, and San Juan de la Virgen districts, local authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The overflowing has affected a few croplands in Pampa Grande, whereas at least 200 hectares —owned by 400 farmers in La Noria sector— are at risk.
Meanwhile, the overflow on the right side of the riverbank is affecting agricultural zones in El Huaco and Mal Paso localities.
Additionally, lower areas in San Jacinto and San Juan de la Virgen have already been affected.
Tumbes Mayor Jimmy Silva urged the population to stay away from the riverbank.
He also stipulated the placement of sandbags along the area adjoining the Bellavista neighborhood, which is likely to be the most affected community. Water is already rushing through the streets; however, it has not entered houses yet.
Army brigades and
COER Tumbes staff remain in the area to assist the population in coping with weather-related events or risks.
According to Peru's National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (
SENAMHI), the flow of Tumbes River increased due to heavy rains in Capitan Hoyle town —in the Peru-Ecuador border— which caused the Cazaderos stream to suddenly grow.
(END) JYC/MAO/RMB/MVB
Published: 3/5/2019