On Monday, November 30, 2025, early dawn scenes in Iparia, central Peru, turned tragic as a massive landslide swept down the riverbank of the Ucayali River, submerging two docked boats in an instant 😢.
Authorities confirmed at least 12 lives lost, including three children, while nearly 40 people remain unaccounted for. About 50 passengers were on one boat; the other had no passengers on board when the mudslide hit.
Navy Captain Jonathan Novoa, coordinating rescue efforts, told local media that nine bodies were recovered and 25 survivors were hospitalized with injuries. Fast-flowing waters, whirlpools, and dense fog – part of the peak flood season conditions – have made the search even more challenging 🚤🌧️.
Images from UTV Noticias show families running along the muddy riverbank, grieving and hoping for news as luggage and belongings drift in the currents. The national emergency operations center (COEN) reported that erosion of the riverbank was the likely trigger, and the navy has been deployed to assist.
Local and regional teams continue to comb the river at breakneck speed, racing against time and rising waters to find missing residents. Rescue volunteers and officials are calling on nearby communities to support those affected, offering food, shelter, and emotional support 🤝.
This tragedy highlights the risks communities face during flood season in Peru's Amazon region. As weather patterns grow more unpredictable, experts stress the need for better monitoring and early warning systems to prevent future disasters.
Our hearts go out to the families affected by this calamity. We will keep you updated as rescue operations progress.
Reference(s):
12 dead, dozens missing as landslide submerges boats in Peru port
cgtn.com
