Intense rainfall linked to the El Niño Costero phenomenon battered southern Peru in mid-to-late February 2026, unleashing flash floods, mudslides (huaicos), and debris flows that devastated parts of Arequipa province. The crisis began escalating around February 19, with the Chullo torrentera (ravine) overflowing and dumping thick mud, rocks, and water into urban neighborhoods. PICS/AFP  

Peru`s new President José Jerí refused to resign on Thursday following the death of a protester during a massive demonstration led by Gen Z activists demanding he step down. Pics/AFP (Text/AP)