One dead after earthquake shakes Peru's capital region
- A 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the central coast of Peru, with its epicenter located 23 kilometers southwest of Callao.
- The earthquake resulted in one fatality and five injuries, all of whom are receiving medical treatment.
- This incident highlights the need for improved earthquake preparedness and building safety in urban regions of Peru.
On June 15, 2025, a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the central coast of Peru, affecting the capital city of Lima and surrounding areas, including the port city of Callao. The Los Angeles-based United States Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred at 11:35 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located 23 kilometers southwest of Callao. Authorities have confirmed that a 36-year-old man in northern Lima was killed when debris from a building under construction struck him while he was waiting for a passenger outside his vehicle. The authorities reported five additional injuries resulting from the quake, with the injured receiving medical treatment at various hospitals in the region. Emergency Operations Centers also indicated that the natural disaster caused significant damage, affecting roads and educational institutions across Lima. President Dina Boluarte responded to the crisis swiftly by planning to visit Callao to monitor the effects and recovery efforts in the wake of the earthquake. In the aftermath of this disaster, local media captured footage displaying the extent of the damage, with cars struck by falling debris and structural impacts to homes and buildings throughout Lima. Reports indicated that residents across all districts of Lima felt the tremor, causing alarm among the population, evidenced by interruptions during a mass at Lima's cathedral and a professional football match at the Alberto Gallardo Stadium being paused for several minutes. This perceptible shaking not only disrupted normal activities but also led first responders and emergency services to assess the damage and provide immediate assistance to those affected. This earthquake is one of several seismic events that have impacted Peru in recent years, a country situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for experiencing frequent tremors and earthquakes due to tectonic plate movements. Despite historical warnings about earthquake preparedness, many buildings in urban areas like Lima may not meet modern earthquake-resistant building codes, raising concerns regarding the safety of residents and infrastructure. The Peruvian government and emergency services are expected to review preparedness protocols in light of this latest event and ensure that the necessary measures are implemented to prevent future casualties. In summary, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the inherent risks that come with living near tectonic boundaries. While the immediate crisis response is underway, the local community, authorities, and national government will need to engage in active discussions about enhancing their earthquake readiness to minimize the catastrophic impact of similar future incidents. Recovery will require not just medical attention for the injured and repairs to damaged infrastructures but also rebuilding trust among the citizens in their safety against natural disasters.