The United States Geological Survey reported that an earthquake of magnitude 7.2 occurred on Friday off the coast of central Peru, with tsunami waves predicted along some beaches.
Soon after the quake was detected, the USGS indicated that it struck 8.8 kilometers (5.5 miles) from the Atiquipa district, boosting the initial magnitude rating.
Strong shaking from the earthquake would have been felt in places close to the epicenter, according to the USGS.
Additionally, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center retracted a previous alert that declared there to be no concern.
There is a warning that “hazardous tsunami waves are forecast for some coasts,” with the possibility of waves rising “1 to 3 meters above tide level.”
Peru, home to around 33 million people, is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a massive region known for its strong seismic activity that stretches down the west coast of the Americas.
Every year, hundreds of audible earthquakes strike Peru.
