Peru Junín earthquake kills at least six, triggers emergency response
A magnitude‑5.1 to 5.5 earthquake struck the Andean Junín region of Peru on the night of 18 July 2026, with the main epicentre in the district of Chongos Bajo, Chupaca province. Official counts vary, but authorities reported six deaths, 30‑32 injuries and roughly 300 people displaced from collapsed adobe homes.
The government declared a 60‑day state of emergency for five districts, mobilising more than 7 tonnes of food aid for 1 250 families and deploying tents, blankets and medical teams. Prime Minister Luis Enrique Arroyo said, “We count six deaths and 32 injured.” Civil‑defence head General Luis Vásquez added that the shallow depth and traditional construction “caused more impact and damage.”
Aftershocks of magnitude 3.4‑3.7 were recorded, prompting continued rescue operations. Damage includes dozens of destroyed or unsafe houses, ruptured hospital wings in Huancayo, loss of historic monuments, and power outages across several districts. The emergency response remains ongoing as officials monitor seismic activity and assess further needs.