Heavy rains linked to El Niño have triggered flooding and landslides across Peru, disrupting access to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and affecting homes and infrastructure in Lima.
Authorities closed the Inca Trail, a major route to Machu Picchu, until Saturday after overflowing waterways and debris made the route unsafe. Landslides also forced road closures in the southern regions of Arequipa and Moquegua.
In Lima, flooding damaged dozens of homes, disrupted water and sewage services and prompted the suspension of classes in three southern districts. Residents reported significant damage to household belongings.
El Niño, which warms Pacific Ocean waters, is already affecting Peru’s fishing and agricultural sectors through extreme weather conditions.
Despite the disruption, Southern Copper said its operations in southern Peru had not been affected. Peru is the world’s third-largest copper producer.
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