7.2 magnitude earthquake shakes the Andean region of Ayacucho in Peru
A strong 7.2-magnitude earthquake shook the Andean region of Ayacucho in southern Peru this Thursday. According to initial reports from the National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci), the natural phenomenon was felt with intensity in nine districts near the epicenter, although no significant personal or structural damage has been reported so far.
The earthquake occurred at 13:00 hours (18:00 GMT), located 35 kilometers north of the town of Coracora. A determining factor for the impact not being critical was its depth, recorded at 108 kilometers, which allowed the seismic waves to dissipate before causing major damage, as explained by the president of the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP), Hernando Tavera.
So far, no damage of any kind has been reported; however, we are trying to seek information from the closest locations, because they are hamlets that are far away in both Ayacucho and Ica, in order to verify the situation of the population.
Luis Vásquez, head of Indeci
Constant monitoring in vulnerable areas
Peruvian authorities maintain an active deployment in vulnerable areas. The head of Indeci warned that, although there are no reports of destruction, there is concern for homes made of rustic materials in remote villages, which are more prone to collapse in the face of movements of this magnitude.
The movement was classified as “strong” in the following areas:
- Ayacucho: Districts of Coracora, Chumpi, Coronel Castañeda, Pacapausa, Pullo, Puyusca, San Francisco de Ravavayco and Upahuacho (Parinacochas province).
- Ica: Nazca District.
Likewise, it was perceived moderately in the jurisdictions of Ica and Pisco, and slightly in various locations of Apurímac and Moquegua. The National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) continues to coordinate with local authorities to ensure that emergency protocols remain active.
Peru and its high seismic exposure
This event brings back to the table the geographical reality of Peru, a country located in the Pacific Ring of Fire. The constant interaction between the Nazca and South American tectonic plates makes the territory one of the most seismically active areas on the planet.
Given the recurrence of these phenomena, emergency institutions insist on the importance of a culture of prevention. The population is advised to remain calm, identify safe areas within their homes, stay away from objects that could fall, and always have a prepared emergency backpack. Authorities continue to collect information to rule out damage in the most remote parts of the country.
