Peru: A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs near Pucallpa in Ucayali Region at around 06:36 Dec. 21

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred near Pucallpa in Ucayali Region at around 06:36 Dec. 21. The epicenter was about 14 km (9 miles) south-southeast of Pucallpa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 12 km (7 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of central and eastern Peru and into far northwestern Brazil. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

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.