Powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake strikes southern Peru with no reported…

Peru's Southern Andes Hit by Powerful Earthquake

A powerful earthquake struck southern Peru on Thursday afternoon, triggering alarms across multiple regions, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake occurred at 1 pm local time (1800 GMT) at a depth of 66 kilometers (41 miles), although the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP) reported a depth of 108 kilometers (67 miles).

The epicenter was located roughly 38 kilometers (24 miles) northwest of the city of Upahuacho, in the Parinacochas province of the Ayacucho region, according to the USGS. However, the IGP reported the epicenter as 35 kilometers north of Coracora, in the province of Parinacochas within the department of Ayacucho. The USGS reported a magnitude of 6.7, while the IGP reported a magnitude of 7.2.

Despite the high magnitude, Peruvian authorities and disaster risk agencies reported no immediate casualties or severe structural damage. Luis Vásquez, head of Civil Defense, told the RPP radio station that “no damage of any kind has been reported so far.” Yony Reyes, mayor of Parinacochas province, also confirmed no damage in the capital, while the Peruvian Navy ruled out a tsunami threat.

However, the quake has reportedly led to landslides in the area, with footage shared on social media showing locals in the streets looking up at debris falling down nearby mountainsides. The earthquake was felt clearly across southern and central Peru, with shaking reported by residents as far as the capital city of Lima and in the Ica and Arequipa regions.

Geophysicists said the depth of the earthquake helped absorb much of the seismic energy before reaching the surface, resulting in a Mercalli intensity rating of III-IV ("light to moderate shaking") near the epicenter, according to the IGP. Peru experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location on the “Pacific Ring of Fire.”

The event follows a period of heightened seismic activity across the country's northern and southern regions. In light of the recent tremors, the IGP urged the public to remain vigilant, review household evacuation protocols, and keep emergency supply kits ready. One of the most destructive earthquakes of recent decades occurred in 2007, when a 7.9-magnitude earthquake struck the Ica region primarily and left nearly 600 people dead.

The earthquake in Peru comes after a major earthquake struck Colombia earlier this month, which led to hundreds of deaths. According to reports, President Abelardo de la Espriella has asked for aid to help Colombia recover from the earthquake, including a request to suspend tariffs on Colombian products.

Official Response and Next Steps

Peruvian authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions in the aftermath of the earthquake. The IGP has also urged the public to review household evacuation protocols and keep emergency supply kits ready. As the situation continues to unfold, it is important to note that the full extent of the damage and any potential casualties may not be immediately clear.

The Peruvian government and emergency services will likely continue to assess the situation and provide support to any affected areas. The public is advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.