A powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Peru in the South Pacific Ocean on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at 12:36 a.m. Peru time near Atiquipa, Peru, with a shake intensity of 4 or greater, indicating it was a “light” quake but it may have been felt beyond the shown area on the map. Seismologists are reviewing data which may lead to a revised magnitude of the earthquake and updates to the shake-severity map.
Following a major earthquake, aftershocks are common in the same area and can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial quake. These aftershocks can be of equal or larger magnitude than the main earthquake, causing further damage in already affected areas.
The United States Geological Survey categorizes shaking intensity based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale and provides updated maps and charts showing earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. The agency is monitoring aftershocks and continues to provide data on seismic activity in the region.
As of the latest update on Friday, June 28 at 8:36 p.m. Eastern Time, the USGS is tracking aftershocks and providing information on the ongoing seismic activity in Peru. Further updates on the earthquake and its impact on the region are expected as more data becomes available.
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