7.2-magnitude earthquake strikes Peru on August 20, 2026

On August 20, 2026, a preliminary magnitude 7.2 earthquake was recorded in Peru, according to information from the Geophysical Institute of Peru. The tectonic movement caused repercussions with videos of landslides and mobilized local authorities in search of support for the affected communities.

Data on the tectonic movement in Peru

The seismic tremor occurred at 1:00:16 PM local time, at a depth of 108 kilometers. The epicenter was located 35 kilometers north of Coracora, in the province of Parinacochas, situated in the Ayacucho region. The geographical coordinates indicated were latitude -14.70 and longitude -73.78, with a preliminary intensity of III-IV in the city of Coracora. The Colombian Geological Survey also reported the occurrence of the event in Peruvian territory.

Records of landslides and mountains

Following the earthquake, visual records began circulating that allegedly showed the movement of a mountain in the affected area. The images appeared to record a landslide or detachment of material on a slope, although without exact official confirmation regarding the names of the formations. Preliminarily, the material would correspond to Nevado Pumahuiri or Mount Pumahuiri, a mountain located in the district of Coracora with approximately 4,784 meters of altitude and local religious and cultural relevance. Additionally, records from Pauza indicated that the strong movement was felt with intensity, with reports of collapses and falling material in ravines and sectors near the city.

Cities affected by the tremor

The movement was felt in different areas of the center and south of the country. The Geophysical Institute of Peru pointed out that the tremor was felt in the northern part of Arequipa, in Ica, Abancay, and Lima. Information broadcasted by media outlets also pointed out that the tremor was perceived in Cusco and Ilo. The head of the institute reported that numerous people rushed out into the streets in panic due to the force of the event.

Requests for support from local authorities

The mayor of the province of Parinacochas, Tony Reyes Anampa, requested support from regional and national authorities after the strong tectonic movement. The mayor asked for the activation of emergency aid mechanisms, highlighting that several properties located north of Coracora are built mainly with adobe and corrugated iron, which makes them especially vulnerable. The mayor expressed hope that there would be no loss of life and asked for attention to assess the conditions of the affected communities, while reports and possible damages are still in the process of being verified.

With information from El Colombiano.