A Peru earthquake killed at least six people and injured more than 30 others after shaking the country’s Andes region Saturday night, authorities said. The 5.5 magnitude quake also displaced about 300 residents, according to officials.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake struck at 9:24 p.m. Saturday. Its epicenter was near Sicaya, in Huancayo province, about 2 kilometers west-southwest of the city.
Peru Earthquake Hits Near Sicaya
The earthquake struck at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometers, or 6.2 miles, according to the USGS. Shallow earthquakes often cause stronger shaking near the surface.
The hardest-hit areas included communities in the Andes region, where older buildings remain vulnerable to strong movement. Local officials reported collapsed homes and serious structural damage.
Authorities said the district of Chongos Bajo was among the most affected areas. Emergency crews were sent there to search for survivors and assess damage.
Officials also said the number of missing people was not immediately clear. Rescue and recovery work continued Sunday as residents waited for more information.
Homes, Churches and Historic Sites Damaged
The quake damaged homes, public buildings and religious sites. Authorities reported damage to the historic “Santiago de León” church and convent in Chongos Bajo.
The church dates back to the 16th century. Its damage added a cultural loss to the human toll of the disaster.
Many homes in the affected communities were built with adobe, a traditional material made from earth and organic fibers. Adobe structures can be especially vulnerable during earthquakes.
That risk is common in many rural and historic areas of Peru. When shaking begins, walls can crack or collapse quickly.
Residents in some communities spent the night outside after the quake. Others searched through rubble for belongings, tools and animals.
Injuries and Displacement Reported
Officials said more than 30 people were injured. About 300 people were displaced from their homes.
Power outages were also reported in some districts. Emergency teams worked to restore services and inspect damaged roads and buildings.
Authorities did not immediately release the names of all victims. Officials continued gathering reports from remote areas, where damage assessments can take time.
The National Civil Defense Institute said emergency teams were working in affected communities. Crews focused on search, rescue and damage evaluation.
The response also included support for residents who could not safely return home. Temporary shelter and basic supplies were among the immediate needs.
Peru Faces Frequent Seismic Risk
Peru sits along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” one of the world’s most active earthquake zones. The area includes several countries along the Pacific Ocean where tectonic plates meet.
Because of that location, Peru frequently experiences earthquakes of different sizes. Some cause little damage, while others become deadly.
One of the country’s most destructive recent earthquakes hit near Pisco in 2007. That 7.9 magnitude quake killed hundreds of people and caused widespread damage.
Saturday’s quake was smaller in magnitude. However, its shallow depth and vulnerable construction made it dangerous for affected communities.
The Peru earthquake now leaves families grieving and communities facing a difficult recovery. Officials urged residents in damaged areas to follow safety guidance while crews continue inspections and emergency work.