The National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi) has issued a red alert for extreme daytime temperatures across the coast and highlands of Peru. The warning, which covers 18 departments, begins at 00:00 hours on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, and will remain in effect for a 71-hour surveillance period ending on July 23.
Extreme Temperature Forecast and Affected Regions
Meteorological conditions are expected to reach unseasonable levels for the current winter period. According to Senamhi, the northern coast will see maximum temperatures between 30 °C and 36 °C, while the southern coast and northern highlands could reach 31 °C. In central regions, coastal temperatures are projected to range from 24 °C to 28 °C, with Andean zones fluctuating between 17 °C and 28 °C. Southern highland regions are expected to experience values between 14 °C and 26 °C.
The red alert encompasses a wide geographical area. The coastal regions under warning include Tumbes, Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Ancash, Lima, Callao, Ica, Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna. Additionally, the Andean regions of Cajamarca, Huancavelica, Ayacucho, Apurímac, Cusco, Junín, and Puno are included in the alert due to the forecast of intense thermal variations and high ultraviolet radiation levels resulting from reduced cloud cover.
Did You Know?
The current weather event is characterized by a 71-hour window of meteorological surveillance, triggered primarily by a lack of cloud cover that increases the intensity of direct solar radiation across the country.
Coastal Winds and Jungle Temperature Increases
Beyond the temperature spike in the west and center, Senamhi has activated an orange alert for the coastal region due to high wind speeds. Ráfagas (gusts) are expected to exceed 35 km/h, particularly in the department of Ica. These winds may cause the lifting of dust and sand, which is likely to reduce horizontal visibility for residents and travelers in those areas.
Simultaneously, the northern and central jungle regions—specifically Amazonas, Loreto, and San Martín—will experience a rise in temperature of light to moderate intensity between July 20 and 21. Maximum temperatures in the jungle are expected to reach near 36 °C, accompanied by afternoon wind gusts of up to 40 km/h.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the red alert period officially begin and end?
The alert begins at 00:00 hours on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, and covers a 71-hour period concluding on July 23.
Which regions are included in the red alert for high temperatures?
The alert covers 18 departments in total, including Tumbes, Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Ancash, Lima, Callao, Ica, Arequipa, Moquegua, Tacna, Cajamarca, Huancavelica, Ayacucho, Apurímac, Cusco, Junín, and Puno.
What are the expected wind conditions in the jungle regions?
In the northern and central jungle, wind gusts are expected to reach up to 40 km/h during the afternoon hours between July 20 and 21.
How will you manage your outdoor activities during this 71-hour window of high solar radiation?