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Arequipa (Agenzia Fides) – A severe wave of bad weather has battered the Arequipa region in recent days, destroying homes and vehicles. Families have been forced to evacuate their houses. More than 4,782 people have been affected, and 142 have been displaced. 469 houses, eight bridges, two health facilities, and 45.65 kilometers of roads have been damaged. The material damage was immense, and basic water and electricity supplies were disrupted. An Air Force helicopter crashed during a rescue operation. All 15 occupants, including seven minors, were killed. These estimates were released by the National Institute for Civil Protection (INDECI). Governor Rohel Sánchez requested the deployment of heavy vehicles and a census of affected households. During a site visit, he announced the establishment of emergency shelters and the distribution of tents, blankets, and food. These measures were initiated in coordination with INDECI and the Regional Disaster Management Center (COER) of Arequipa.
The Peruvian Episcopal Conference responded immediately, expressing its deep regret over the recent events. It offered its support to the affected families and asked for prayer and unity during this time of mourning. “In light of the recent events that have plunged our country into deep sorrow, we express our deepest condolences, solidarity, and sympathy to the families grieving the loss of their loved ones in the disasters,” the Peruvian bishops stated. “We join in the prayers for the deceased in Arequipa and for the communities of the 16 districts severely affected by the landslides and storms,” declared Carlos Enrique García Camader, President of the Episcopal Conference and Bishop of Lurín, on behalf of the bishops. The prelate also expressed his deepest condolences to the Peruvian Air Force and the families of the 15 victims of the plane crash. "The loss of these victims brings great sorrow to the families and the entire nation," he affirmed. "In these moments of grief and shock, we ask for compassion, unity, and fraternal solidarity, recognizing that mutual support is essential to address these painful realities." (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 25/2/2026)
