In this paper the relationship between Peru precipitation and Peru-coast and basin-wide SST anomalies for 1950-2002 is characterized with linear lag correlation coefficients. The goal is to establish the potential for statistical precipitation forecasts based on SST anomalies in the Nino 1+2 and 3.4 regions. The following sections describe the data, methodology, annual cycle and interannual variability, and the development of the forecast model.