At least six people have been killed and 21 others injured after two earthquakes struck Peru’s Junín region, causing widespread destruction in several communities.
According to Peru’s National Civil Defense Institute, the earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 5.1 and 3.7, hit Chupaca province on Saturday night, about 300 kilometres east of the capital, Lima.
Authorities said at least 48 homes were destroyed, while 18 others were damaged, leaving about 300 residents affected. Emergency shelters have been provided for displaced families.
Rescue workers and firefighters have been deployed to clear debris and search for possible survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings, many of which were constructed with adobe blocks.
Officials warned that casualty figures could rise as rescue operations continue.
