Peru, U.S., Chile train for El Nino disaster
Naval forces from Peru, the United States, and Chile have completed a joint disaster relief exercise. These drills, part of Exercise Unitas LXVII Peru 2026, focused on preparing for a severe El Niño phenomenon. Meteorologists predict this El Niño could be exceptionally strong, rivaling the 1997 event. The scenario involved extensive damage, collapsed structures, and trapped individuals, requiring complex rescue operations. Participants practiced evacuating affected persons across simulated rivers, demonstrating critical skills for flood-prone areas.300 personnel from the three nations participated in the El Niño rescue simulation. They collaborated with Peru's Civil Defense Institute and local health directorates. A Peruvian Navy ship, boats, and helicopter were used for the simulated emergency. The Unitas LXVII exercise is a major international event, gathering over 5,700 participants from twenty-four countries. It involves twenty-six ships, two submarines, and twenty-one aircraft. The primary goal is to enhance interoperability and ensure forces can provide coordinated assistance to populations affected by natural disasters.The United States has pledged support for Peru's El Niño preparedness, including deploying the military hospital ship USNS Comfort to Peru's northern Pacific coast in February 2027. The ship, with 1,000 beds and facilities, will assist residents impacted by expected rains, flooding, and landslides. The US has provided over $1 million to strengthen disaster preparedness.
