Landslides in Per and the effects of Climate Change

Peru is a nation grappling with various natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and droughts. Among these, landslides stand out as a frequent and devastating occurrence. This blog post delves into the facts surrounding landslides in Peru and examines their connection to climate phenomena like El Nino.

Understanding Landslides

Landslides encompass the downward movement of rock, soil, or debris on a slope, driven by gravity. They vary in scale from minor rock falls to colossal mudslides capable of engulfing entire villages. The Global Landslide Catalog reveals that Peru witnessed over 1,500 landslide events from 2007 to 2020, leading to more than 1,000 deaths and affecting over 100,000 individuals.

Historical Perspective

• 1970 Ancash earthquake-triggered landslide: over 20,000 fatalities
• 2017 Mocoa landslide: over 300 fatalities
• 2019 Huaraz landslide: over 20 fatalities

Climate and Rainfall

Peru's diverse climate, influenced by altitude, latitude, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, plays a significant role in landslide occurrence. The country is divided into three regions: the coast, the highlands, and the jungle, each with distinct rainfall patterns. Generally, Peru experiences more rainfall during the summer (December to March) than in the winter (June to September).

El Nino and La Nina: Climate Phenomena

El Nino and La Nina, opposite phases of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), impact Peru's weather patterns. El Nino leads to warmer, wetter conditions, while La Nina brings cooler, drier weather.

Impact of El Nino

• Increased rainfall intensity and frequency
• Triggering or exacerbating landslides
• 1997-1998 El Nino: over 400 landslides, 300+ fatalities, 2+ million affected - Nature
• 2015-2016 El Nino: over 200 landslides, 100+ fatalities, 1+ million affected

Impact of La Nina

• Cooler and drier conditions
• Potential droughts leading to landslides
• 2010-2011 La Nina: severe drought, 1+ million affected, water shortages, crop losses, forest fires

Effects on Marine Ecosystems

The Pacific coast of Peru, known for its productive fisheries, relies on a phenomenon called upwelling. This process brings nutrient-rich water to the surface, supporting marine life. El Nino disrupts upwelling, reducing nutrient availability and fish populations. This can have cascading effects on the entire marine food chain and can also affect coastal communities that depend on fishing for their livelihoods. Conversely, during La Nina years, upwelling is enhanced, leading to an increase in nutrient availability and fish populations.

Conclusion

Landslides in Peru are a complex issue, influenced by various factors such as rainfall, seismic activity, human activities, and climate phenomena like El Nino and La Nina. Understanding these factors is crucial for mitigation and preparedness. The interconnectedness of climate, geology, and human activity in Peru offers a compelling case study of how natural phenomena can have far-reaching impacts on a country's environment, economy, and people.

Opinion and Analysis

In my view, the situation in Peru underscores the importance of comprehensive research, monitoring, and community engagement in addressing landslides. The intricate relationship between climate phenomena like El Nino and landslides demonstrates the need for an integrated approach that considers meteorological, geological, and socio-economic factors. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, scientists, and local communities can lead to more effective prevention and response strategies. The case of Peru serves as a valuable lesson for other regions facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for global cooperation and understanding in the face of natural hazards.