Huge 7.2-magnitude quake strikes off Peru sparking tsunami fears
A tsunami alert was issued in Peru after a massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake occurred.
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, some coastal areas were warned of waves up to 3 meters high, but the warning was later lifted.
The USGS increased the magnitude of the quake shortly after it occurred 8.8 kilometers (5.5 miles) from the Atiquipa district.
There were no immediate damage reports from authorities, but coastal areas were warned to brace for large waves.
However, the US National Tsunami Warning Center said there was no longer a threat, while Peru’s president said the wave warning “no longer existed”.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center had previously said: ‘Dangerous tsunami waves are forecast for some coasts’, with waves reaching ‘one to three metres’.
Peru has a population of about 33 million and is located on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, a vast area of intense seismic activity that runs along the west coast of America.
As a result, the country is hit by hundreds of detectable earthquakes every year.
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre, some coastal areas were warned to expect waves of up to 3 metres (10 feet) high, but the warning was later lifted.
