Fifteen killed in Peru helicopter crash amid severe flooding

Fifteen people, including seven children, have died after a military helicopter providing rescue services crashed in southern Peru on February 22, officials said.

The Peruvian Air Force said that the Mi-17 helicopter lost radio contact while operating in the Arequipa region, which has been experiencing torrential rains and flash flooding. The wreckage was located the following day in the Chala district, near the Pacific coast, close to the town of Chala Viejo, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Among the victims were 11 passengers and four crew members, some of whom were reported to be accompanied by relatives, including a three-year-old child. The helicopter had been deployed to support ongoing search and rescue operations in areas affected by mudslides and overflowing rivers.

The Peruvian Air Force expressed condolences, stating: “Our deepest condolences to the family members, friends, and the entire FAP family for the irreparable loss of our crew and passengers.”

An official investigation into the crash has been launched.

The region has been hit by intense flooding, which has caused mudslides, collapsed trees, and damage to streets and homes. Local media reported at least two additional fatalities due to the storm: an elderly woman swept away by floodwaters in the Cayma district and a man struck by lightning.

Arequipa’s regional governor, Rohel Sánchez, said local authorities had requested national government assistance after several homes were damaged and declared uninhabitable. Dramatic footage from the region shows mud and debris washing through residential streets and floodwaters entering homes.

By Sabina Mammadli