Peru's National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (Senamhi) said a new isolated low-pressure system named DANA Bertha will bring rain and stronger winds to the central and southern highlands over the coming days, arriving just as DANA Anibal moved away from the country.
DANA Anibal caused rain and strong winds last week across high Andean areas and the coast before moving off.
According to weather advisories currently in effect, Senamhi is forecasting rain, snow, hail and sleet in high Andean zones under Advisories No. 331 and No. 334, along with stronger winds in the southern highlands under Advisory No. 333.
The system was initially identified as a cold trough at high altitude but, following its evolution, now has the configuration of an Isolated Depression at High Levels, or DANA, named Bertha. Senamhi said this reclassification does not change the weather hazards already forecast or the advisories already issued. DANA Bertha is currently positioned over the Pacific Ocean, and its movement will mainly alter weather conditions in the central and southern high Andean zones.
Each System Behaves Differently
Senamhi noted that every DANA behaves differently. Its trajectory, intensity and evolution depend on the atmospheric conditions present as it moves and on its interaction with other weather systems, the agency said, adding that one DANA does not necessarily produce the same effects as another.
Senamhi recommended that residents stay informed through its official channels, check current weather advisories and follow the recommendations of local authorities in the event of weather emergencies.
What Is a DANA?
DANA stands for Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos, or Isolated Depression at High Levels. It is an atmospheric system characterized by a mass of cold air isolated in the upper layers of the atmosphere.
When that cold air interacts with warmer, more humid conditions closer to the ground, it can create instability and favor different types of precipitation. Depending on altitude and local conditions, this can fall as rain, hail, sleet or snow.
