Magnitude 5.1 earthquake in central Peru leaves at least five dead and ten injured

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck central Peru late Saturday, killing at least five people and injuring ten others. The quake’s epicentre was located near the town of Chupaca in the Andean region of Junín, at a depth of 24 kilometres. Seventeen minutes after the initial shock, a smaller magnitude 3.7 aftershock hit the same area, though officials noted this second tremor was significantly less intense than the main event. The disaster occurred on Saturday evening, with reports indicating that the shaking was felt moderately in Chupaca. The hardest-hit area was the district of Chongos Bajo, where one of the fatalities was recorded. However, local authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the deceased. Damage assessments are ongoing, with emergency teams working to evaluate the extent of destruction across the region. In the regional capital of Huancayo, two hospitals sustained damage. The Daniel Alcides Carrión Hospital, which treated some of the injured, and the El Carmen Mother and Child Hospital both reported structural issues. Cracks were observed in the paediatric intensive care unit of the latter facility, raising concerns about the safety of patients and staff. Power outages were reported in several districts following the quake, complicating recovery efforts and medical operations. Historic sites in the area also suffered damage. The Cani Cruz stone cross in Chongos Alto, a notable landmark, was reportedly affected, along with parts of the old Santiago de León convent. These structures, often fragile due to their age, are being assessed for stability and potential restoration needs. According to preliminary assessments by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COEN), the national highway network remained unaffected, ensuring that critical transport routes stayed open for emergency response and relief operations. This allowed rescue teams and supplies to reach impacted communities relatively quickly. Peru sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for frequent seismic activity. Approximately 85% of all global earthquakes occur in this region, making it one of the most seismically active areas on Earth. In the Chupaca area specifically, earthquakes measuring 5.0 or greater are estimated to occur roughly every 13 years. Smaller tremors are more common throughout the Junín region, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and preparedness measures. Authorities emphasize that while predicting earthquakes remains beyond current scientific capabilities, seismic models play a crucial role in identifying high-risk zones. These models aid in developing strategies for mitigation and response planning, helping to reduce the impact of future quakes on vulnerable populations and infrastructure. Emergency services continue to work alongside local communities to address immediate needs, including providing shelter, food, and medical assistance to those affected. Officials remain cautious, acknowledging that further assessments will determine the full scope of the damage and the long-term implications for the region.