Background on the South Pacific Anticyclone and its Impact
Peru has closed 88 out of its 122 ports due to intense storm surges along its Pacific coastline, triggered by strong surface winds associated with the South Pacific Anticyclone meteorological phenomenon, according to maritime authorities.
Preventive Measures and Duration
This preventive measure includes the suspension of all fishing and recreational activities to minimize risks of accidents and material damage. The closure may increase depending on the event’s magnitude, which is expected to last until mid-week, authorities warn.
Details from Peruvian Maritime Authority
Captain of Frigate Enrique Varea, Director of Oceanography at the Peruvian Navy, stated to channel N television: “We have 88 closed ports out of 122, indicating that the storm surge impact on Peru’s Pacific coasts is significant.”
According to the naval authority, as of Sunday, “the storm surge intensity is strong and will decrease to moderate in the following days before returning to normal water levels.”
Additional Effects of the Anticyclone
The South Pacific Anticyclone also brought about a drop in temperatures and sandstorms in Pisco and Paracas, central Peru’s coastal region, where wind speeds reached up to 63 km/h. This information was reported by the National Meteorological Service on Sunday.
The authority explained that the South Pacific Anticyclone consists of intense, persistent surface winds originating off Peru’s and Chile’s northern coasts over the ocean, creating high atmospheric pressure due to a cold, stable, and dry air mass.
Recent Impact on Peru and Chile
Peru and Chile experienced strong storm surges at the end of 2024 and earlier in January, highlighting the recurring impact of this meteorological phenomenon on both countries.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the South Pacific Anticyclone? It’s a meteorological phenomenon characterized by strong, persistent surface winds originating off the coasts of Peru and Chile, creating high atmospheric pressure due to a cold, stable, and dry air mass.
- Why are Peruvian ports being closed? To prevent accidents and material damage caused by intense storm surges along the Pacific coastline triggered by these strong winds.
- How long will the ports remain closed? The closure may increase depending on the event’s magnitude, which is expected to last until mid-week.
- What other effects does the South Pacific Anticyclone have? Besides intense storm surges, it also brings about a drop in temperatures and sandstorms in affected regions.
- Has this phenomenon impacted Peru and Chile recently? Yes, both countries experienced strong storm surges at the end of 2024 and earlier in January, demonstrating the recurring impact of this meteorological phenomenon.
