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Peru Quakes Devastate Junin, Leaving Five Dead
20 Jul
Summary
- Two earthquakes, magnitudes 5.1 and 3.7, struck Peru's Junin region.
- At least five people were killed and 21 injured by the tremors.
- Approximately 300 people were displaced due to destroyed or damaged homes.
Two powerful earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 5.1 and 3.7, struck Peru's mountainous Junin region on Saturday night. The seismic activity occurred east of the capital, Lima, causing significant devastation.
Authorities have confirmed at least five deaths and 21 injuries resulting from the tremors. Rescue workers are actively searching for survivors who may still be trapped beneath collapsed structures. The national seismological center reported the quakes hit at depths of 24 km and 18 km.
Early reports from Peru's National Civil Defense Institute indicate that approximately 48 homes were completely destroyed and another 18 suffered damage. This widespread destruction has led to the displacement of around 300 residents, who are being provided with temporary shelter in tents. The president-elect expressed deep regret and condolences to the affected families.
Many homes in towns like Chupaca, located about 300 kilometers east of Lima, are constructed with adobe mud bricks, making them particularly vulnerable to collapse during seismic events. Peru is situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for intense global seismic activity.
