Evacuation of the population affected by torrential rains and floods in Piura region is virtually done, so emergency response efforts are now focused on the organization of shelter camps, Peruvian Defense Minister Jorge Nieto informed on Wednesday.
Organization of said shelters and food supply management is being taken care of with support of private enterprises.
The government official estimated shelters will initially accommodate around 2,000 people.
He noted that while the number of affected citizens exceeds that figure, some of them refuse to evacuate for fear of burglars getting into their properties.
"We have practically completed evacuation [works]. Those who have not been evacuated are citizens unwilling to leave," he told RPP TV and radio station.
"They say the situation will go back to normal as water levels decrease. They want to take care of their belongings, and we will respect their will," he explained.
Rains not over
Given rains forecasted for tonight and for Thursday in the northern region, emergency response operations are a race against the clock.
"We are gearing up for this [coming rains]; we are making all provisions necessary to face the situation, which is complicated as it is."
Regarding such efforts, the minister highlighted the role played by the Armed Forces in rescue and assistance operations.
On the other hand, he mentioned arrangements are underway to get further international aid, potentially U.S. helicopters currently deployed in Colombia.
Pending needs
Lastly, Nieto stressed more motor pumps are required to drain all flood waters.
He also warned about flood-related health risks such as dengue, which must be prevented.
In this sense, he noted a team led by Health Minister Patricia Garcia remains in the area to assist the population —including children and seniors— requiring medical care.
(END) VVS/CCR/DHT/MVB