Lima (EFE).- A 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck the Andean region of Ayacucho in southern Peru on Thursday. It was felt as «strong» in nine districts near the epicenter, but the initial report from the National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci) indicated that there has been no damage so far.
The quake occurred at 1:00 pm on Thursday and was located 35 kilometers (21 miles) north of Coracora at a depth of 108 kilometers (67 miles).
Because it originated at such a great depth, the earthquake was felt in several regions of the country, including Lima, but it did not cause any «critical» damage, according to Hernando Tavera, president of the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP).
The initial INDECI report noted that «units from first-response agencies, along with local authorities, are continuing to monitor vulnerable areas, with no damage reported so far.»
INDECI Director Luis Vásquez confirmed on RPP radio that no damage has been reported yet, although they are awaiting more «validated and accurate» information.
