A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off Peru’s coast Saturday, killing one person and injuring at least 36 others, shaking the capital city of Lima and prompting emergency responses across the country.
At a Glance
- The earthquake struck at 11:35 a.m. local time near Callao
- Peru’s Geophysical Institute measured the quake at magnitude 6.1
- One man was killed by falling debris; dozens were injured
- Landslides and damage were reported along the Costa Verde
- President Dina Boluarte visited affected areas and confirmed no tsunami threat
Quake Rattles the Coast
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded a 5.6-magnitude earthquake, while Peru’s national institute pegged it higher at 6.1. The epicenter was located roughly 23 kilometers southwest of Callao, near Lima, with a depth of about 50 kilometers. It caused significant shaking across the capital, disrupting transportation, sporting events, and daily life.
Casualties and Destruction
A 36-year-old man was killed in Lima’s Independencia district when a wall collapsed at a construction site, crushing his vehicle, according to El País. At least 36 others sustained injuries from falling objects, broken infrastructure, and panic. Parts of the coastal highway suffered landslides and debris falls, leading to temporary closures.
National Response and History
President Dina Boluarte quickly traveled to Callao, assuring citizens there was no tsunami risk. Officials began rapid inspections of buildings and roads. Peru’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it prone to earthquakes, with hundreds of tremors detected annually.
The 1970 Ancash earthquake remains the country’s deadliest, killing nearly 70,000. Saturday’s quake, while moderate by comparison, has reignited discussions on improving early warning systems and building codes to protect citizens.
As aftershocks continue, Peruvians remain on alert—relying on preparation and resilience in a region where seismic events are part of life.
