Flood Journal Entry

Deadly Floods Sock Peru (February 4, 2010)

Heavy floods brought on by nearly nonstop rains killed at least twenty people in southern Peru. Five others are missing, while thousands of people are homeless. More than 2,000 people visiting the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, the nation's main tourist attraction, were stranded after mudslides blocked the railroad leading to and from the site. The tourists were later rescued by helicopter and plane. The floods are the country's worst in nearly twenty years.

Machu Picchu, known as the "Lost City of the Incas," was built in the 15th century. The spectacular ruins sit nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. The site can only be reached by taking a train to Aguas Calientes, then continuing by bus, plane, or hiking.

Floods are also causing big problems in neighboring Bolivia, where at least ten people were killed and 22,000 others are homeless.