A 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck in the South Pacific Ocean off Peru on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The temblor occurred at 12:36 a.m. Peru time about 5 miles west of Atiquipa, Peru. Seismologists are currently reviewing available data and may revise the earthquake’s reported magnitude. Aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that follow a larger one in the same area, can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake. These aftershocks can be of equal or larger magnitude and continue to affect already damaged locations.
The U.S.G.S. has defined the shake intensity of 4 or greater as “light,” but the earthquake may be felt outside the areas shown on the map. The agency is continuously collecting additional information about the earthquake and may update the shake-severity map as more data becomes available. Aftershock data is included in the coverage, which shows earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times mentioned are in Peru time.
It is important for residents in the affected areas to remain cautious and prepared for further aftershocks. The impact of aftershocks, though usually smaller, can still cause significant damage. Authorities and residents should stay informed about the latest updates and adhere to safety measures recommended by experts to minimize the risk of further damage.
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