Several dead after strong 5.6-mag earthquake devastates Peru with homes collapsing and thousands left without power

SEVERAL people are dead after a huge earthquake struck Peru on Saturday night. The magnitude 5.6 quake rocked the country at a depth of 13.67 miles, the ​European Mediterranean Seismological Centre said. Several people are dead after a huge earthquake struck Peru last night Stone structures collapsed to the floor after the tremor struck Dozens of houses collapsed into rubble in the worst-affected district Pumpunya. Fear has gripped the region where residents reported victims trapped in the rubble. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The earthquake was recorded at 9.24pm, with its epicentre located seven kilometers south of Chupaca. Shockwaves shot out through Huancayo, Concepción, Jauja, and various towns in the Mantaro Valley. The earthquakes epicentre was located seven kilometers south of Chupaca Credit: Alamy The magnitude 5.6 quake rocked the country at a depth of 13.67 miles Credit: earthquake.usgs.gov Within seconds people fled their homes in panic, trying to escape in darkness caused by sudden power outages. Two people were initially confirmed dead in the Pumpunya annex, belonging to the Chongos Bajo district. Police, firefighters and medical teams rushed to the site to help other victims and recover the bodies. The death toll has now risen to five, as authorities warn it may continue to climb. Most read in The Sun Cattle were crushed by debris, leaving several dead, according to local media. At least three aftershocks have already been recorded amid the chaos, Peru21 reports. In the center of Chongos Bajo, the historic Cani Cruz came crashing down into the main plaza. The 500-year-old stone structure has become the focus point of an annual 20km pilgrimage from Huancayo to Chongos Bajo. Disaster Risk Management teams have started to assess damage to homes, public premises, health infrastructure, education, local roads and livestock. It comes just days after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Mexico. The monster tremor was felt across southern Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, violently shaking buildings and sparking fears of destructive tsunami waves. The US Geological Survey (USGS) said hazardous tsunami waves could hit coastlines within 186 miles of the epicentre. No deaths or serious damage have were reported in Mexico, Guatemala or El Salvador. Chilling footage captured sirens blaring as buildings rattled violently during the powerful quake. More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun. Comment now