One Dead After 6.1-Magnitude Earthquake in Peru

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake hit Peru, causing one death and several injuries. The quake occurred near Callao, with no tsunami warning issued. President Boluarte urged calm, while landslides were reported in Lima, leading to the suspension of a major football match.

A severe earthquake struck Peru on Sunday, recorded at a magnitude of 6.1, leading to one confirmed death and several injuries across the area. The quake occurred just before noon, with its epicenter located approximately 30 kilometers from Callao, a port city nearby Lima, according to the National Seismological Center. The U.S. Geological Survey reported a slightly lower magnitude of 5.6, creating some discrepancy. Fortunately, authorities confirmed there was no tsunami warning associated with the quake.

Tragically, a man lost his life in Lima when a wall collapsed onto his vehicle, as reported by the National Police. In addition to the fatality, five other individuals sustained injuries, prompting a swift response from local emergency services. President Dina Boluarte addressed the nation, urging citizens to remain calm while reiterating that the Pacific coastline was not under tsunami risk.

TV reports highlighted varying impacts across Lima, with footage showing landslides affecting multiple neighborhoods. These geological events even impacted recreational activities, leading to the postponement of a significant football match in the capital. Peru’s geographical positioning makes it prone to seismic activity; the country is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.

With around 34 million residents, earthquakes are a common occurrence in Peru, with over 100 detectable tremors happening each year. The last notable quake, a 7.5-magnitude tremor in the Amazon region back in 2021, resulted in injuries to twelve individuals and the destruction of numerous homes. One of the most catastrophic events in Peru’s modern history occurred in 1970, when an earthquake claimed around 67,000 lives in the Ancash region.

In summary, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake in Peru resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries while triggering landslides and disrupting local activities. Key officials reassured the public about the absence of a tsunami threat amidst ongoing aftershocks and geological assessments. With the country’s history of seismic activity, such incidents, though tragic, are unfortunately part of life in this region.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr