Juliaca Endures Freezing Temperatures as Winter Arrives in Peruvian Altiplano

Juliaca, Peru – Winter has officially arrived in the high-altitude region of Juliaca, bringing a challenging mix of sunny days and intensely cold nights. According to reports from Panamericana Televisión, residents are already experiencing significant drops in temperature, with frost and ice becoming common sights. A local reporter highlighted the stark contrast between daytime sun and the biting cold that descends after dusk. "While there is plenty of sun during the day, especially in the mornings and afternoons, the sensation of cold is strongly felt here in the Puno altiplano, particularly at night," the reporter stated. The National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (SENAMHI) forecasts that temperatures will continue to drop considerably across the Puno altiplano. Visual evidence from the region shows thick layers of ice forming on streams and other water bodies, with one individual seen breaking large sheets of ice. Icicles hang from structures, further illustrating the severe conditions. The report noted that while Juliaca itself is over 3,800 meters above sea level, some areas in the vicinity exceed 4,000 meters, where temperatures are expected to consistently fall below zero degrees Celsius. The cold weather impacts both the local population and livestock, such as alpacas, which are adapted to these harsh conditions.