Seismic Event in Junín: Fatalities and Infrastructure Damage Reported
A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the Junín region of Peru on the night of July 18, resulting in at least one confirmed fatality and significant infrastructure impacts. The seismic event, which occurred at 21:24 hours, was centered 7 kilometers south of Chupaca, in the province of the same name, at a depth of 24 kilometers. According to the National Seismological Center of the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP), the earthquake reached an intensity of grade IV-V. A secondary tremor with a magnitude of 3.7 followed 20 minutes later, centered 14 kilometers southwest of Chupaca at a depth of 18 kilometers.
Casualties and Emergency Response
The Ministry of the Interior (MININTER), through the District Subprefecture of Chongos Bajo, confirmed the death of one individual following the seismic activity. The identity of the deceased is currently being verified. In response to the emergency, the National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI) and the National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) have activated a coordinated response involving all three levels of government. The Regional Directorate of Health has deployed two SAMU ambulances and brigades to assist with injuries, while local disaster risk management offices continue to monitor the situation. While reports indicate coordination in the district of Chilca, officials noted that no losses of life or health impacts have been reported in that specific area.
Impact on Infrastructure and Power Supply
The earthquake caused visible damage to buildings and public infrastructure. Notable structural damage was reported at the Church and Ruins of the Old Convent of Santiago de León, a site recognized as part of the regional cultural heritage. The Ministry of Culture (MINCUL) confirmed the collapse of the “cani cruz” monument at the site, and the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Junín is currently conducting a Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (EDAN) to prioritize recovery efforts. Widespread power outages were also reported across multiple sectors, including Sapallanga, Chilca, Chongos Bajo, Cullhuas, Acostambo, Pazos, Huaribamba, and Pumpunya. These disruptions affected both residential homes and commercial establishments, complicating emergency communication and rescue efforts. However, the Ministry of Transport and Communications confirmed that the National Road Network and telecommunications services remained operational and did not sustain damage.
Ongoing Monitoring and Safety Protocols
INDECI and local authorities are currently implementing EDAN across the affected districts to maintain a constant monitoring of the situation. This strategy allows officials to allocate humanitarian aid, adjust resource distribution, and ensure the protection of the affected population.
Authorities remind the public that Peru is situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire,
a region of high seismic activity caused by the constant movement of tectonic plates. In light of this, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness. INDECI recommends that all households maintain an emergency backpack containing essential supplies, including:
* Non-perishable food: Canned tuna, crackers, dried fruits, and candies.
* Supplies: Bottled water, flashlights, radios, whistles, ropes, and plastic trash bags.
* Medical: A first aid kit containing bandages, gauze, medical tape, masks, hydrogen peroxide, topical creams, analgesics, and antibiotics.
* Miscellaneous: Cash in coins, documents, and specific items for infants or children.
Government agencies continue to coordinate with regional authorities to evaluate the impact on basic services and ensure that aid reaches those in the most heavily affected areas.
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