The Climate Issues Putting Chan Chan at Risk
The historic city is suffering from a range of climate change related impacts
Eroding Chan chanCyArk
How is this historic city eroding away?
Chan Chan landscapeCyArk
Peru is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from the high Andes to lush tropical rainforest. Consequently, it is suffering from a range of climate change related impacts including glacial melt, desertification and extreme weather conditions.
Walking over the lunar landscape at Palacio Rivero by CyArk and Chan ChanCyArk
Extreme weather
Chan Chan has always suffered from extreme weather, and they would certainly have been familiar to the Chimú people and other past civilisations along the coast of Peru.
Chan Chan infographic rainfallCyArk
Increased frequency of El Niño events
These impacts have become worse in recent decades as the frequency of El Niño (a complex weather pattern) events has increased.
Chan Chan infographic groundwater evaporationCyArk
Sea-levels rising
Increased rainfall and sea-level rise is predicted along the coastal zone where Chan Chan is located. It is also where 52% of the current population of Peru are based.
Chan Chan infographic micro-climate humidityCyArk
Coverage from increased rainfall causes micro climates
Towns which get no rain for years can be inundated with water and this erodes buildings. The reliefs are particularly vulnerable to rain and as sea temperatures rise the impacts of El Niño become more severe. Heavier rain has also resulted in a rise to the water table affecting foundation.
Chan Chan infographic erosionCyArk
Coverage from increased rainfall causes micro climates
Towns which get no rain for years can be inundated with water and this erodes buildings. The reliefs are particularly vulnerable to rain and as sea temperatures rise the impacts of El Niño become more severe. Heavier rain has also resulted in a rise to the water table affecting foundation.
Discover more
Discover how CyArk uses 3D documentation to empower local experts.
Find out more about ICOMOS' efforts to increase engagement of cultural heritage in climate action here.
Milagros Flores, ICOMOS and President, ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Fortifications and Military Heritage.
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