Peru: A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs near Arequipa Department at around 09:03 July 8

A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred near the coast of the Arequipa Department in South Peru, at around 09:03 July 8. The epicenter was about 60 km (38 miles) west-southwest of Atiquipa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 21 km (13 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of the Ica, southern Huancavelica, central and southern Ayacucho, southwestern Apurímac, and western Arequipa departments. 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.