Cajamarca, Peru—Three people died Wednesday when flash floods destroyed a major bridge in the Cajamarca region. The collapse followed hours of torrential rainfall that overwhelmed local riverbanks. The bridge, a vital link for the community, gave way under the pressure of the rising water and debris.

The victims were reportedly attempting to cross the bridge in a small vehicle when the structure disintegrated. Rescue teams recovered the bodies from the riverbed several kilometers downstream after the water levels began to recede. The force of the flood was so intense that large sections of the bridge were washed away entirely.

Local authorities have declared a state of emergency for the surrounding districts. The destruction of the bridge has effectively cut off access to two rural towns, complicating efforts to deliver aid. Military personnel are currently working to establish a temporary crossing for emergency responders.

Government engineers are on-site evaluating the extent of the damage to other infrastructure in the area. They have warned residents to avoid river banks as the risk of secondary landslides remains high. The regional disaster agency is coordinating with the national government to expedite repairs.

Families of the deceased are receiving support from the local municipality. This flood event is the most severe to hit this specific district in recent years. Many residents are still in shelters after their homes were damaged by the initial rising waters.

Cleanup crews are attempting to clear the roads of mud and rocks while rescue operations continue in the lower basin. No further casualties have been reported, but the search continues for those who may have been swept away. The regional government is expected to announce a relief fund later this evening.

The investigation into the structural integrity of the bridge will begin once the floods subside. Officials are already facing criticism for not performing maintenance on the older spans during the dry season. The focus for now remains entirely on securing the safety of the affected populations.