The Geophysical Institute of Peru reported three earthquakes with magnitudes up to 4.2 across the regions of Arequipa and Loreto on Aug. 7, 2026. The seismic activity forms part of continuous ground movements in the country, which sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Peru shares this high seismic risk with neighboring South American countries and Japan. Earthquakes frequently occur in regions such as Ica, Arequipa, and Lima, where tectonic plates collide. The Geophysical Institute of Peru constantly monitors these events alongside INDECI to inform citizens and promote emergency preparedness.
The strongest quake on Aug. 7 struck at 9:47 a.m. local time with a magnitude of 4.2 and a depth of 160 kilometers, centered 35 kilometers north of Tuti in the Caylloma province of Arequipa. Earlier at 12:01 a.m., another magnitude 4.2 earthquake hit at a depth of 152 kilometers, located 42 kilometers southeast of Contamana in Ucayali, Loreto. At 8:27 a.m., a magnitude 4.0 tremor occurred at a depth of 116 kilometers, positioned 96 kilometers west of Andoas in Datem del Maranon, Loreto.
Emergency Backpack Preparation
To reduce risk during earthquakes, INDECI and civil defense guidance recommends maintaining an emergency backpack with essential supplies. Items should include hygiene products such as antibacterial gel, toilet paper, toothbrushes, towels, and wet wipes, as well as a medical kit containing masks, alcohol, sterile gauze, adhesive tape, adhesive bandages, elastic bandages, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotic cream, and family prescription medicines.
The pack must also contain warm fleece blankets, footwear, bottled still water, cereal bars, canned food, and chocolates. Additional supplies include a multi-use knife, polyester ropes, a lighter, duct tape, plastic bags, cash, batteries, a portable radio, a whistle, and a flashlight. Citizens should check expiration dates regularly and pack items for family pets.
