An earthquake of magnitude 6.0 occurred today, Tuesday, November 5, at an average of 2:39 pm, 50 kilometers southeast of Lunahuana, Cañete, Lima.
According to the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP), the earthquake had a depth of 139 kilometers, latitude -13.15, longitude -75.71.
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So far, the National Institute of Civil Protection (Indeci) has not reported personal or material damage due to the earthquake and continues the respective monitoring in the area.
As we remember, our country is located in the area known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, where 85% of the world’s seismic activity has been recorded.
RECOMMENDATIONS IN CASE OF EARTHQUAKES
Indeci gives you the following recommendations to know how to act in the event of an earthquake:
- Always stay calm; assess the situation and help others. Do what you have practiced.
- Stay away from windows, shelves or any tools, artifacts or objects that could roll or fall into the exit.
- If you cannot leave, locate in the previously identified internal security zone, for example near structural columns or walls or near the elevator shaft.
- Evacuate with your emergency backpack.
WHAT TO DO IN THE CASE OF AN EMERGENCY BACKGROUND IN THE EVENT OF A WORLD QUAKE?
An emergency backpack should contain the following items:
- Agua
- Non-perishable (canned or packaged) foods.
- First aid kit. Include medications from a family member.
- Hygiene items.
- Clothing and shelter.
- Flashlight (in case the natural event happens at night or early in the morning).
- Portable radio and batteries to keep us informed.
- Cash, coins preferred.
- Specific items for children, older adults or women’s use.
It is recommended that a backpack does not weigh more than 8 kilograms and that there are items for two people, so if there are many members of the family, more backpacks will be needed.
If in a family there is only one adult and several minors, it is advisable to prepare small backpacks that the children can help carry.
It is important to remember that the emergency backpack is carried during the evacuation, that is, after the emergency has occurred.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Elena Torres, Seismologist
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, Dr. Torres. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent earthquake that struck near Lunahuana, Cañete.
Dr. Elena Torres (ET): Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. It’s crucial to discuss these events, especially given the frequency of earthquakes in our region.
TNE: Absolutely. The earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.0 and struck at a depth of 139 kilometers. What does this depth tell us about the nature of this quake?
ET: Great question. The depth of the earthquake is significant because it can determine the level of impact felt on the surface. Deeper quakes, like this one, usually have less intense shaking at the surface compared to shallower quakes of the same magnitude. This distance can help mitigate damage, which is why, as of now, we haven’t seen reports of personal or material damage.
TNE: That’s reassuring to hear. We know that Peru is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area notorious for high seismic activity. Can you elaborate on what this means for regions like ours?
ET: Certainly. Being part of the Pacific Ring of Fire means that Peru experiences a significant amount of tectonic activity due to the interaction of multiple tectonic plates. Approximately 85% of the world’s seismic activity occurs in this area. As such, residents must be prepared, as such events can happen without much warning.
TNE: Speaking of preparedness, what steps can individuals take to ensure their safety during an earthquake?
ET: Indeci has provided valuable recommendations. The most important thing is to stay calm. Assess your surroundings and help those around you. It’s recommended to stay away from windows and heavy objects that may fall. If you’re indoors, locate yourself in a designated safety zone, such as near structural columns. Always have an emergency backpack ready to go.
TNE: Preparation is definitely key. Are there specific practices you suggest for communities to improve earthquake readiness?
ET: Yes, communities should regularly conduct drills to familiarize themselves with emergency procedures. Schools and local organizations can play a vital role in educating families about proper response techniques and the importance of emergency kits. Furthermore, infrastructure should be assessed and upgraded to meet seismic standards to enhance safety in the event of an earthquake.
TNE: That’s invaluable advice, Dr. Torres. Lastly, with the monitoring ongoing by Indeci, what role does real-time data play in responding to seismic events?
ET: Real-time data is critical. Organizations like the Geophysical Institute of Peru provide immediate insights into seismic activity, enabling authorities to respond quickly. This ensures that emergency services can be mobilized effectively and that accurate information can be relayed to the public. Enhanced communication during such events can save lives.
TNE: Thank you for these insights, Dr. Torres. It’s apparent that knowledge and preparedness are vital in minimizing the risks associated with earthquakes. We appreciate your time and expertise.
ET: Thank you for having me. Remember, being informed and prepared can make all the difference during unexpected seismic events.