A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck southern Peru on Thursday, sending tremors across several areas, including Ica and Arequipa. No casualties or major damage were reported in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake.
The earthquake occurred at around 1 pm local time on August 20, corresponding to approximately 11:30 pm IST. Its epicentre was located about 38 kilometres northwest of Upahuacho, in the Parinacochas province of the Ayacucho region.
According to the information available, the earthquake originated at a depth of around 66.7 kilometres.
Tremors Felt Across Southern Peru
The earthquake was felt across parts of southern Peru, prompting residents in some areas to leave buildings and move into open spaces.
Reports and visuals from the region showed people gathering outside following the tremors. Areas around the Andes also witnessed falling rocks and dust after the earthquake.
Although the shaking was strong enough to be felt across a wide area, there were no immediate reports of significant structural damage or deaths.
Authorities and local communities continued to assess the situation following the earthquake.
Earthquake Hit Andes Region
The epicentre was situated in the Ayacucho region, close to the Andes mountain range. The relatively deep focus of the earthquake, at about 66.7 kilometres, meant that its effects were felt over a broader area.
Images from Pausa and surrounding locations showed dust in the air following the tremors. Rockfalls were also reported from mountainous areas.
Residents in affected areas were urged to remain cautious, particularly around damaged structures and steep mountain slopes where secondary rockfalls could occur.
Peru Lies On Pacific Ring Of Fire
Peru is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone surrounding the Pacific Ocean that is highly active tectonically.
The region experiences frequent earthquakes because of the movement and interaction of tectonic plates. Peru has witnessed several powerful earthquakes in the past, including a devastating quake in the Ica region.
In 2007, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck southern Peru, killing nearly 600 people and causing widespread destruction.
The latest earthquake was considerably weaker than the 2007 event, and no comparable destruction was reported immediately after Thursday's tremors.
Recent Earthquakes In South America
Several strong earthquakes have also been reported in South America during 2026.
A magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Venezuela on June 24, while a magnitude 7.0 earthquake was reported in Colombia on August 10.
The latest earthquake in Peru once again highlighted the region's vulnerability to seismic activity because of its location along one of the world's most active tectonic zones.
Officials and residents remained alert for possible aftershocks following the main earthquake.
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