6.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Lima and Callao: one death and five heroes

An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale shook the cities of Lima and Callao this Sunday, generating panic among residents, especially in areas of tall buildings and old structures. The epicenter was located 36 kilometers west of Callao, at a depth of 30 km, according to the Peruvian Geophysical Institute (IGP).

First victims and damages
The authorities have confirmed one deceased person and at least five injuries, some due to falling debris or trauma suffered during the hasty evacuation.

The deceased would be a 63-year-old man in the district of La Victoria, who suffered a heart attack during the earthmoving movement, according to medical sources. The heroes were transferred to hospitals in Miraflores, San Isidro and the Cercado de Lima.

Chaos and fright in tall buildings
Numerous videos circulate on social networks showing moments of despair inside residential buildings and workshops. In districts such as Magdalena, San Borja and Jesús María, the movement was perceived with great intensity, forcing people to evacuate.

"It was as if everything came down. We went down the steep stairs", reported K13 News in a neighborhood in the district of Surquillo.

Evaluation and official response
Civil Defense began the inspection of vulnerable structures and bridges. For now, there have been no reports of major collapses, including cracks on facades, electrical cuts and problems with the drinking water network.

President Dina Boluarte, in a brief message, asked the population to calm down and ensured that the National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) had been activated.

"The priority is to save lives and secure the affected areas. We ask the city to stay informed through official channels", he said.

Risk of replica?
The IGP warned that moderate aftershocks could occur in the next 48 hours. The authorities recommend that citizens check their emergency backpacks and maintain calm.