A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck the southern Andes region of Peru on Thursday. The tremor occurred at 1 p.m. local time with an epicenter 38 kilometers northwest of the town of Upahuacho in the Ayacucho region. Reports indicate a focal depth of roughly 66.7 kilometers. Local authorities and emergency services have confirmed no immediate reports of casualties or significant structural damage following the event.
While the United States Geological Survey recorded the event at magnitude 6.7, Peru's Geophysical Institute registered the seismic activity at magnitude 7.2. The shock was felt across multiple departments including Ica and Arequipa, with residents in the capital city of Lima also reporting tremors. Footage broadcast by local media outlets depicted rocks and earth shifting near the town of Coracora, but officials have noted that residents responded by evacuating and taking shelter.
The Peruvian Navy issued a statement confirming there is no threat of a tsunami. Luis Vasquez, head of the National Institute of Civil Defense, confirmed to local media that no damage or injuries are currently recorded. Officials remain on alert as they assess the situation across the rural, mountainous zones near the epicenter.
Peru is located on the southeastern edge of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for constant seismic shifts and tectonic movement. Major earthquakes have historically impacted the country, such as the 2007 event in the Ica region which resulted in significant loss of life. Emergency response teams continue to monitor the area to ensure the safety of those in the southern departments.