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Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Strikes Southern Peru, Injuring Three

Environment7 sourcesAug 21, 2026
FlatRigor 537 sources

The Story

A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck southern Peru on Thursday, injuring three people and damaging at least 22 homes, six schools, and 12 medical centers, according to preliminary assessments. The quake, which occurred around 1 p.m. local time, was felt in Lima and several other parts of the country. Peru’s Geophysical Institute recorded a magnitude of 7.2 and a depth of over 108 kilometers, with the epicenter in Parinacochas province in the southern Andean region of Ayacucho. The US Geological Survey reported a magnitude of 6.7 and a depth of approximately 66.6 kilometers, with the epicenter 38 kilometers northwest of Upahuacho. Luis Enrique Vásquez Guerrero, head of Peru’s National Institute of Civil Defense, told local media that two people were injured in falls while evacuating. The Peruvian government announced that Housing Minister Mauricio Arnillas González would travel to the affected area. No incidents have been reported at any mines. The Peruvian Navy confirmed there was no threat of a tsunami. Images broadcast by Peruvian media showed rocks and earth tumbling down hills around Coracora, a town with a population of about 10,000.

The Spread

What they agree on

  • A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck southern Peru on Thursday.
  • The US Geological Survey reported a magnitude of 6.7.
  • Peru's Geophysical Institute recorded a magnitude of 7.2.
  • The earthquake was felt in several parts of the country, including Lima.
  • The epicenter was located in the southern Andean region of Ayacucho.

Where they split

  • Sources differ on the exact magnitude of the earthquake, with the US Geological Survey reporting 6.7 and Peru's Geophysical Institute reporting 7.2.
  • Sources provide slightly different figures for the depth of the earthquake, with the USGS reporting approximately 66.6 kilometers and Peru's Geophysical Institute reporting 108 kilometers.
  • Sources provide differing details on the number of injuries and damaged structures, with some reporting three injuries and damage to 22 homes, six schools, and 12 medical centers, while others initially reported two injuries and fewer affected structures.

Source Perspectives

Center5 sources
Right2 sources