Powerful Quake Strikes Off Peru Coast, Locals Warned of Tsunami Risk
A massive earthquake registering 7.2 on the Richter scale struck offshore northern Peru on Sunday, shaking residents and prompting tsunami warnings for coastal areas. The quake occurred at a depth of around 52 kilometers around 100 kilometers off the coast of the northern region of Sama. No casualties or damage to infrastructure have been reported so far, though shaking was felt strongly in towns located close to the epicenter.
As a precaution, the country's NWS issued tsunami warnings for the coastline stretching from the Tumbes Region up to Lima, Peru's capital located further south. Locals residing near the coast have been advised to seek higher ground and stay away from beaches. Emergency teams have also been put on standby to assist in evacuation efforts and provide relief as required. So far no reports of injuries or casualties. Experts will continue monitoring sea levels for any abnormal fluctuations that could indicate an impending tsunami.
While powerful quakes are not uncommon here due to Peru lying in the so-called “Ring of Fire,” an earthquake of this magnitude striking offshore is likely to cause strong shaking over a wide swath of land. Residents in coastal villages are on edge as they await further reports on sea conditions. Meteorologists will update tsunami advisories based on hydrographic data received hourly from tidal stations in the region. The situation remains fluid but officials aim to ensure public safety. More details are expected to emerge once impact surveys are carried out post daylight hours.
