Authorities in Peru's Arequipa region have commenced helicopter evacuations for dozens of people and vehicles stranded on the Southern Coastal Highway for six days due to severe landslides.

The region has experienced heavy rainfall, which triggered the landslides that destroyed sections of the vital highway, cutting off access and leaving travelers stranded.

Reports indicate that individuals and their vehicles were trapped for nearly a week before rescue operations could be initiated. The helicopter evacuations aim to safely transport those affected from the isolated highway.

The prolonged closure of the Southern Coastal Highway highlights the vulnerability of Peru's infrastructure to extreme weather events, particularly during periods of heavy rain. The incident raises questions about the preparedness and response mechanisms for such natural disasters.

Landslides are a recurring hazard in Peru, often exacerbated by seasonal rains that saturate the soil, leading to instability in mountainous and coastal areas. The Southern Coastal Highway is a critical transport artery, and its disruption has significant logistical and economic implications for the region.

Details regarding the exact number of people rescued or the full extent of the highway's damage are still emerging. Emergency services are working to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance to those affected.

This event underscores the challenges faced by Peru in maintaining its transportation networks against the backdrop of a changing climate, which is predicted to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena.

Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue and authorities provide more information on the damage and future repair plans for the affected section of the highway.