Peru: A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs off the coast of Ancash Region at around 11:23 Feb. 19

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred off the Pacific coast of Ancash Region at around 11:23 Feb. 19. The epicenter was about 38 km (23 miles) south-southwest of Chimbote. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 56 km (35 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of Ancash, La Libertad, northern Lima, southern Cajamarca, southwestern San Martin, and western Huanuco regions. 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. The event has not prompted 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.