Peru: Casualties and landslides reported following magnitude-5.4 earthquake off the coast of Lima Province May 12 /update 1

Event

Casualties and landslides have been reported following a magnitude-5.4 earthquake that struck off the coast of Lima Province May 12. As of May 13, authorities have reported that one person died due to a heart attack following the quake and seven others have been injured. Around 6,000 people near the epicenter were exposed to moderate shaking from the earthquake and light-to-weak shaking was probably felt across coastal areas of central Peru. Landslides triggered by the earthquake have been reported in Lima and Hurarl provinces, including on the Costa Verde ring road in Lima which resulted in sections of the road being closed. Disruptions are likely on affected roads in the coming days as authorities work to clear debris and ensure road safety before routes are reopened. No major damage to buildings has been reported; however, damage assessments make take some time to complete.

The magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurred at around 16:55 May 12. The epicenter was about 11 km (9 miles) west-northwest of San Bartolo and the tremor occurred at a depth of about 55 km (34 miles). Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event did not prompt any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Plan for transport disruptions. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.