A 6.1-magnitude earthquake in Peru has led to one fatality and several injuries, with landslides reported in Lima. No tsunami warning was issued, but the tremor interrupted a major football match. Peru’s geological history shows a pattern of significant seismic activity.
A powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck Peru on Sunday, resulting in one confirmed death and several landslides. The incident occurred just before noon, with its epicenter located about 30 kilometers from Callao, a port city adjacent to the capital, Lima. Notably, the US Geological Survey reported a slightly lower magnitude of 5.6 for the quake.
Authorities indicated that the tremor did not trigger a tsunami warning, although local concerns were heightened. A tragic incident was reported where a man lost his life in Lima after a wall collapsed on his vehicle, according to the National Police. In addition to the fatality, five other individuals sustained injuries, as reported by the Emergency Operations Center.
In light of the situation, President Dina Boluarte urged citizens to remain calm, reassuring them that the coast was not under threat from a tsunami. News reports captured scenes of landslides occurring in various parts of Lima, showcasing the quake’s impact on the infrastructure.
Moreover, the earthquake led to the suspension of a significant football match happening in Lima, as authorities assessed the situation. Peru, home to around 34 million residents, is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its seismic and volcanic activities. It is reported that the country experiences an average of 100 noticeable earthquakes each year.
The last significant earthquake struck in 2021 in the Amazon region, registering a magnitude of 7.5, which resulted in 12 injuries and the destruction of over 70 homes. Historically, Peru has faced catastrophic seismic events, such as in 1970 when a quake in the Ancash region claimed approximately 67,000 lives, illustrating the nation’s vulnerability to these natural disasters.
In summary, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Peru, resulting in one death and several injuries, along with landslides reported in Lima. Given the country’s geographical location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, such seismic events are prevalent, emphasizing the need for preparedness. Previous earthquakes in Peru, including a severe one in 1970, underline the potential for devastating impacts on the population.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
