Seasonal variability in the Chancay-Lambayeque basin: challenges and opportunities in water resources management

Abstract

The El Niño event regularly affects northern Peru, causing heavy rains and economic damage in provinces such as Lambayeque. The Chancay-Lambayeque basin is affected by an increase in river flow, particularly in Lambayeque. This study focuses on the seasonal variability of the flows recorded in the Raca Rumi inlet in the Chancay-Lambayeque basin, between 1998 and 2014, and determines that, during the summer and autumn months, higher flows are observed, coinciding with the rainy season. This variability poses both challenges (flood risk, possible landslides, difficulties in the maintenance of infrastructure) and opportunities (water storage, the focusing of scientific research) that should be considered in the management of water resources in northern Peru.