**Lima and Junín Experience Light Earthquakes on 1 September 2026**
*Lima, Peru – 1 September 2026* – The Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP) recorded two low‑magnitude seismic events on Tuesday, 1 September 2026.
The first tremor was detected in the capital, Lima, at 10:16 a.m. local time. According to the IGP’s National Seismic Center, the quake registered a magnitude of 3.4 on the Richter scale, originated at a depth of 59 kilometres, and was centred at latitude ‑12.59 and longitude ‑76.89. No immediate reports of damage or injuries were released.
A second event occurred in the central highlands of Junín. The IGP logged a magnitude 3.5 earthquake at 2:57 a.m., with its epicentre located approximately 18 kilometres south of the town of Chupaca. The quake’s focal depth was 9 kilometres, and its coordinates were latitude ‑12.22 and longitude ‑75.31. The IGP assigned an intensity of II–III on the Modified Mercalli scale for the Chupaca area, indicating that the shaking was felt but caused no notable damage.
**IGP Monitoring and Reporting**
The IGP uses data from the National Seismic Network to determine the time, location, depth, and magnitude of each seismic event. Continuous monitoring of even minor tremors is intended to improve scientific understanding of the region’s tectonic activity and to reinforce public awareness of earthquake risk.
In a statement, the IGP emphasized that magnitude alone does not dictate how strongly an earthquake is felt. “Depth, distance from the epicentre, local soil conditions, and building characteristics all influence the perceived intensity,” the institute explained.
**Context of Seismic Activity in 2026**
The institute reported that, as of early September, Peru has experienced more than 600 earthquakes in 2026. While the majority have been of low magnitude, officials continue to urge the public to maintain preparedness measures, given the country’s location along active plate boundaries.
**Infrastructure Concerns**
Separately, the water utility company Sedapal warned that a moderate‑intensity earthquake could disrupt water supply for up to 40 percent of the population in Lima and Callao. The warning cited the aging condition of key water‑distribution infrastructure and a lack of sufficient emergency equipment.
**Safety Recommendations**
Peruvian civil defence authorities reiterated standard safety guidelines for residents during seismic events:
* Remain calm and move to a safe location away from windows, doors, and exterior walls.
* Protect vulnerable individuals, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
* Keep clear of electrical wires, poles, and other hazards.
* Keep an emergency kit on hand, containing items such as masks, basic food supplies, a portable radio, and first‑aid materials.
The IGP provides real‑time updates on its official website (https://ultimosismo.igp.gob.pe) and via its Twitter account @Sismos_Peru_IGP. No casualties or structural damage were reported in connection with the September 1 tremors.
Article and image source: larepublica.pe
