Peru investigates why Andes earthquake was so intense, causing five deaths

A scientific team from Peru's Geophysical Institute (IGP) has traveled to Chupaca province in the central Andes to investigate the factors that intensified a recent 5.1 magnitude earthquake. The seismic event on Saturday caused five deaths, dozens of injuries, and left hundreds displaced, with extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.

Specialists are conducting field studies to assess damage to buildings and infrastructure, analyze soil characteristics, and examine surface dynamics that contributed to the earthquake's intensity. IGP head Hernando Tavera explained that the Mantaro Valley, where Chupaca is located, is bordered by the Huaytapallana and Altos del Mantaro fault systems. The Saturday earthquake resulted from the reactivation of the Altos del Mantaro fault, situated close to populated areas like Chupaca and Chongos Bajo.

Tavera further noted that the earthquake's superficial nature increased the shaking intensity. Additionally, soil conditions likely amplified seismic waves, exacerbating the observed damage. The typical adobe and quincha construction of local homes may have contributed to the damage, as concrete and brick structures reportedly fared better.

The magnitude 5.1 earthquake, followed by a 3.7 magnitude aftershock just 17 minutes later, primarily affected several districts, including Chongos Bajo and Huancayo. In Chongos Bajo alone, three men and two women died, including two elderly individuals and a 17-year-old. The quake also left 32 injured, 398 displaced, and 211 affected. Official reports indicate 52 homes were destroyed, 43 became uninhabitable, and 88 were damaged, along with damage to educational facilities, health centers, historical sites, a municipal building, and a kilometer of road.

In response, the Peruvian government declared an emergency in several affected districts. Chupaca has experienced subsequent minor earthquakes, including one on Tuesday with a magnitude of 3.5, though no new damage has been reported.