• Source:JND
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Peru Earthquake: A powerful 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck near Lima, Peru, early Sunday morning, causing panic across the capital and surrounding areas. Shocking videos emerged showing worshippers fleeing during a mass at Lima’s iconic cathedral, while emergency services rushed to respond to the unfolding crisis.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake's epicentre was located approximately 23 kilometres off the coast of Callao, a major port city near Lima. The tremor was classified as a moderate earthquake, though residents across all districts of Lima reported intense shaking.

One Fatality And Multiple Injuries

Officials confirmed at least one fatality, a 36-year-old man who died in northern Lima while standing outside his vehicle, as reported by Police Colonel Ramiro Clauco on Peruvian broadcaster RPP radio. The Emergency Operations Centre reported that five individuals were hospitalised with injuries, and damage was recorded at roads and educational institutions.

President Dina Boluarte addressed the nation, urging citizens to remain calm. She confirmed that there was no tsunami threat resulting from the quake. In a post on X, the presidency announced that President Boluarte was travelling to Callao to assess the coastal region’s condition and reassure residents.

Mass Disruption And Public Reaction

The earthquake disrupted daily life in various ways. A professional football match at Lima’s Alberto Gallardo Stadium was temporarily paused due to the shaking. Meanwhile, terrified worshippers abruptly fled from a Sunday mass at the city’s cathedral, scenes of which were captured on video and shared widely on social media.

Hernando Tavera, executive president of the Geophysical Institute of Peru, stated that all of Lima’s districts felt the quake, underscoring the widespread impact of the tremor.

Seismologists are continuing to analyse data to determine the full extent of the earthquake’s impact. The USGS is monitoring aftershocks within a 100-mile radius of the epicentre for up to seven days following the main quake. They also released an initial shake-severity map using the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale to assess ground movement, although the data remains provisional and subject to updates.

Peru sits on the Ring of Fire, a tectonically active region prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. As aftershock monitoring continues, authorities are remaining vigilant and urging preparedness for potential secondary tremors.

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