The early morning of May 17, 2025 was shaken in several points in the south of Peru due to a strong earthquake of magnitude 6 which was felt most intensely in the Ayacucho region and its surroundings. The episode caused concern among the population, although fortunately there are no reports of fatalities or serious injuries.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located about 23 kilometers south of Puquio, in the province of Lucanas, with an approximate depth of 97 kilometers, according to official data from the Peruvian Geophysical Institute (IGP). This point of origin and depth explain why, despite its magnitude, the damage was limited, avoiding major consequences for people and the urban environment.
Perception of the tremor and affected areas
The earthquake was felt intensely in multiple districts, including San Pedro, Chaviña, Lucanas, Saisa, San Cristóbal, San Juan, Sancos, Pullo and Lampa, where the population perceived the movement as moderate to strongIn towns like Carmen Salcedo, Puquio, and even in the province of Nazca (Ica region), the sensation was somewhat milder, although equally alarming for many residents.
En cities like Lima and IcaThe tremor was also felt, albeit at a lesser intensity. Many residents reported feeling the shaking, although no significant damage or incidents were reported in these areas.
Damage assessment and official responses
According to the National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) y the National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI), the initial balance showed minor structural damageSome 25 homes were damaged, along with 10 schools and a health center in various locations in Ayacucho and the Bella Unión district of Arequipa. In Huanuhuanu, also in Arequipa, a communal building was uninhabitable, and internet and telephone service was disrupted.
Local and regional authorities, along with rapid response patrols, They continued to assess the state of the infrastructure and kept the operations centers active, but emphasizing that there were no injuries or major incidents. On the other hand, the Ministry of Transport and Communications confirmed that the communication routes remained operational, without any significant cuts or blockages.
El IGP and other experts They pointed out that if the earthquake had occurred at a shallower depth (for example, 30 or 35 kilometers), the damage could have been much more severe. The structural quality of buildings, especially in rural areas and those with precarious construction, was a focus of attention, although this time the event was overcome without major losses.
Seismic context in Peru and preventive measures
Peru is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most seismically active areas in the world. According to recent reports, more than 2025 earthquakes have already been recorded in XNUMX alone. 340 earthquakes in the country, most of them of medium and low magnitude.
The Authorities insist on the importance of preparation in the face of these episodes. National programs such as the Peruvian Seismic Alert System (SASPe) are in the process of being implemented to provide advanced warning to the population seconds before a major earthquake. National drills, such as the one planned for May 30, seek to strengthen citizen response capacity and reinforce a culture of prevention.
Special emphasis is placed on the Home inspection, preparation of emergency backpacks and conducting family drills. Recent experience underscores the importance of identifying safe zones in each home and having basic supplies on hand, just in case.
Experts, such as Hernando Tavera (IGP), do not fail to remind us that Peru is a country with high seismic risk And prevention is key: from checking construction materials to conducting frequent drills, everything helps reduce risks in future larger events.
