How does the Peru Current affect the coast of South America?

The Peru Current, also known as the Humboldt Current, significantly shapes the environment and economy of the South American coast through its cold, northward-flowing waters.12

Climatic Impact

As a cold-water current, it contributes to the extreme aridity of the coastal region by providing little moisture to the air masses moving toward the continent. While it brings frequent fog—locally known as garúa—to the coast, it helps maintain one of the world's most intensely dry climates. This cold flow is periodically disrupted by El Niño, a warm countercurrent that can bring torrential rainfall to these typically arid areas.123

Marine Productivity

The current is intensified by the upwelling of deep, nutrient-rich water, driven by the trade winds and Earth’s rotation. This process supports a highly productive marine ecosystem, making the waters off Peru, Chile, and Ecuador some of the world's most significant fishing grounds for anchovies and other species. Additionally, the birds that feed on these fish deposit guano, which serves as a valuable natural fertilizer.13