Landslide follows 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Peru

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake has struck the Ayacucho region, located in the Andes Mountains in southern Peru. According to initial reports, 3 people were injured while attempting to evacuate their homes during the tremor.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) announced the epicenter of the earthquake as 38 kilometers northwest of the town of Upahuacho in the Parinacochas province. The depth of the tremor was recorded as 66.7 kilometers in USGS data, while it was recorded as 108 kilometers in the records of the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP).

While it was noted that the depth of the earthquake limited widespread destruction, the tremor was felt over a wide area, including Cusco, Arequipa, and the capital, Lima.

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT CONTINUES IN THE REGION

In initial inspections conducted by civil defense teams and local authorities, damage was identified in at least 22 homes, 6 schools, and 12 health facilities. Rock and landslides occurred on the slopes around Coracora and Puquio, near the epicenter.

Coracora Mayor Yony Odon reported that the public quickly evacuated buildings and moved to safe areas following the tremor. Power outages affecting at least 6 thousand subscribers occurred in the region after the earthquake.

Civil Defense Chief Luis Vasquez announced that 3 people were injured during evacuation in Coracora, the center of the Parinacochas province.

Across Ayacucho, education has been suspended in schools to allow for structural damage assessments. Authorities stated that the extent of the damage will become clearer once inspections of mountainous and difficult-to-access village roads are completed.

In Peru, which is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, aftershocks of 4.2 magnitude were recorded following the main tremor. Authorities called on residents of the region to be cautious and to follow official warnings.

News Source: 12punto