Huge 7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Peru, Shakes Chile, Colombia

A huge earthquake measuring 7.1 in magnitude has struck 248 kilometers in the northwest region of Puerto Maldonado, Peru near the Brazil border, at about 4:04 a.m. local time, Reuters is reporting.

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Chile's Foreign Minister Roberto Ampuero tweeted: “We have received information there was a strong 7.1 earthquake in southern Peru. We convey to our Peruvian brothers our solidarity and willingness to cooperate if that is required. A hug to Peru.”

The epicenter of the quake hit at a depth of 610 kilometers, according to the USGS. The tremor was also felt in northern Chile and Medellin, Colombia. Authorities said there are no reports of damage or casualties and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said no tsunami is expected to threaten the region.

According to reports, the city of Pucallpa experienced two violent shakes.

Earthquakes are common in Peru because the country lies between the boundary of the Nazca and South American tectonic plates. 

In January, a similar 7.1.magnitude earthquake hit Peru's southern coast resulting in the death of a 55-year-old man in the town of Yauca, as well as injuries to some 140 other people. In 2001, at least 74 people were killed when an 8.1.magnitude earthquake rattled southern Peru, triggering a tsunami.

At least 69 earthquakes reportedly struck the Pacific's dreaded Ring of Fire over a 48-hour period Saturday and Sunday, the U.S. Geological Survey said.