A strong 6.1-magnitude earthquake shook the cities of Lima and Callao on Sunday morning, causing alarm among the population, according to the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP).
It specified that the earthquake's epicenter, recorded at 11:35 a.m. (local time), was located 30 kilometers southwest the Constitutional Province of Callao, at a depth of 49 kilometers.
Residents of Lima's Miraflores and Chorrillos districts are reporting landslides at various points along the cliffs of the Costa Verde Beach circuit through social media.
"The earthquake has generated high levels of ground shaking, especially in areas near the coast. It is likely that some type of damage occurred in the Constitutional Province of Callao, but we are awaiting confirmation of this information," Tavera stated.
The IGP head reminded citizens that Peru is a highly seismic country and that events like today's are part of the territory's normal geological dynamics.
"Earthquakes are constantly occurring in our country. It is important that the population is prepared and remains calm when such phenomena occur," he emphasized.
Tavera explained that this type of earthquake, which occurs off the Peruvian coast, is the result of the collision between the Nazca Plate and the South American continental plate, unlike those that originate within the continent's interior.
Lastly, the official reiterated his call to local authorities and the public to check the condition of their homes and follow Indeci's recommendations in the event of aftershocks.
Update at 2:01 p.m. (local time): Following the 6.1-magnitude earthquake registered at 11:35 a.m. today, COEN–Indeci reported one death in Lima's Independencia district.
COEN–Indeci added that five people were also reported injured and are being treated at various hospitals in the capital.