Peru Earthquake Kills Five, Injures Over 20 as Rescue Efforts Continue

A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Peru's central Andes region late Saturday, killing at least five people, injuring more than 20, and displacing around 300 residents, while rescue teams continued searching for those still missing.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at 9:24 pm local time, with its epicentre located 2 km west-southwest of Sicaya in Huancayo province at a depth of 10 km. Peru's National Civil Defence Institute said several buildings collapsed or sustained severe damage, including a local church and convent. The agricultural region of Chongo Bajo was among the hardest hit, with residents spending the night outdoors after their homes were damaged. Local civil defence chief Luis Vasquez said the widespread use of adobe construction significantly increased the extent of destruction.

Peru is highly vulnerable to earthquakes because it lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone where the Nazca Plate continuously subducts beneath the South American Plate. This geological setting generates frequent earthquakes, making seismic preparedness a national priority.

The latest disaster has again underscored the importance of earthquake-resistant construction, especially in rural communities where traditional adobe buildings remain common. Reinforced structures, modern building standards, and regular safety inspections can greatly reduce the risk of building collapse and loss of life during earthquakes.

Experts also emphasise the need for disaster preparedness, including public awareness, evacuation drills, emergency supplies, and coordinated response systems. Swift search and rescue operations, medical assistance, temporary shelters, and long-term rehabilitation play a crucial role in reducing casualties and helping affected communities recover.

The quake also revived memories of Peru's 2007 magnitude 7.9 Pisco earthquake, one of the country's deadliest disasters, which claimed nearly 600 lives and highlighted the continuing need to strengthen disaster resilience across the nation.