Deadly Earthquake Strikes Central Highlands in Peru

Peru frequently experiences earthquakes, but the recent 5.5-magnitude quake was the most severe to hit the central highlands in nearly 50 years. The tremor resulted in the death of six people and injuries to at least 20 others, according to official reports.

The earthquake occurred in the Junín region near Chongos Bajos at 9:24 PM on Saturday. It caused significant damage to homes, compelling around 300 residents to take refuge in a sports stadium due to persistent aftershocks. This information was provided by Peru’s National Institute of Civil Defense.

The quake also inflicted damage on the town’s historic 16th-century church and chapel. Local broadcaster RPP covered these developments as the situation unfolded.

The United States Geological Survey stated the earthquake had a depth of approximately 6.2 miles and measured 5.5 in magnitude. In contrast, Peru’s National Geophysical Institute reported a magnitude of 5.1 and a depth of around 15 miles.

According to Hernando Tavera, head of Peru’s Geophysical Institute, this was the largest quake in the central highlands since the region experienced temblors of 5.9 and 6 magnitude back in 1969.

This year alone, Peru has detected about 450 earthquakes, a frequency that aligns with the country’s typical seismic activity. Mr. Tavera highlighted the vulnerabilities of traditional adobe and straw homes, prevalent in the Andes, mentioning their susceptibility to collapse during earthquakes.

The earthquake disrupted electrical power in areas near the epicenter, continuing to affect several villages on Sunday. Luis Vásquez, director of the National Institute of Civil Defense, commented on these conditions during a broadcast of Exitosa Noticias.