Magnitude 7.2 earthquake strikes southern Peru in August 2026
The tremor occurred in the Andean region of Ayacucho and left minor injuries.
On August 20, 2026, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake shook the Andean region of Ayacucho, causing minor damage to homes and at least three non-serious injuries. The movement occurred at 1:00 PM local time, according to official information released.
Location and epicenter data
The epicenter of the tremor was located 35 kilometers north of the town of Coracora, situated in the province of Parinacochas, in the southwest of the country. The Geophysical Institute of Peru reported that the seismic event originated at a depth of 108 kilometers.
Intensity and perception of the shake
The phenomenon reached an intensity of III to IV in Coracora, which means it could be felt clearly inside homes and buildings. However, this specific intensity did not in itself imply risks of severe damage.
Reported material damage
Defense Minister Rafael Belaunde reported impacts on 22 homes and 6 schools. The National Institute of Civil Defense indicated that strong effects were felt in several districts of the province of Parinacochas and also in the Nazca district.
No tsunami warning
The Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation of the Navy confirmed that the telluric movement did not generate any tsunami warnings along the Peruvian coast. Additionally, the United States Geological Survey calculated a magnitude of 6.7 for the event.
Geological context of the region
The territory is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a strip marked by intense seismic and volcanic activity. Off the coast of Peru, the Nazca plate subducts beneath the South American plate, releasing large amounts of energy.
With information from BBC Mundo.
Source: BBC Mundo