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On November 13, 2025, a moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.8 shook the southern coast of Peru, approximately 88 km northwest of Camaná, in the Arequipa region.
The epicenter was located at coordinates 16.16°S, 73.38°W, at a depth of about 10 km. The event occurred at 09:04 UTC (04:04 local time in Peru) and was followed by minor aftershocks, including a magnitude 4.5 tremor shortly afterward. No tsunami warning was issued, as the earthquake did not have sufficient intensity to generate significant waves.
Peru is located on the boundary of the Nazca-South American plates, an area of high seismic activity, making seismic events common in this subduction zone.
However, this earthquake was not among the strongest recorded in the region this year (for example, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake in May near Puquio caused more significant effects).
Real-time monitoring from sources such as the USGS and the EMSC confirmed the event but did not report an immediate escalation to severe levels. Impacts
The effects of the earthquake were relatively limited due to its moderate magnitude and its offshore location, which reduced the intensity of the shaking in densely populated areas. The main impacts include:
The earthquake’s intensity was estimated at between III and IV on the Modified Mercalli scale near the epicenter (weak to slight), decreasing until it was imperceptible in Lima (more than 600 km to the north).
The consequences of the earthquake appear to have been contained, and a rapid recovery is expected. Short-term effects include:
Minimal disruption to the mining and agricultural sectors in Arequipa, a key copper-producing region in Peru. Tourism along the southern coast experienced brief disruptions to beach activities, but no cancellations were reported. Estimated costs are less than US$1 million, primarily for minor repairs.
Localized anxiety in communities familiar with seismic risks, but no mass evacuations occurred. Social media posts from the area highlighted community solidarity, with residents sharing alerts through apps like Chile Alerta (a cross-border app due to the proximity).
Long-term risks: The possibility of minor aftershocks in the coming days, as noted by the EMSC, could cause slight instability in fault zones. However, Peru’s National Civil Defense (INDECI) did not raise the alert level.
The event highlights persistent vulnerabilities in southern Peru, where old adobe buildings remain prone to damage.
This magnitude 4.8 earthquake exemplifies the typical seismic activity in the southern coastal region of Peru, with minimal overall impact thanks to its offshore epicenter and the country’s improved early warning systems.
It serves as a reminder of the need to continue investing in resilient infrastructure, especially in the rural area of Arequipa, where poverty rates hover around 30% and could exacerbate future vulnerabilities.
Authorities recommend remaining vigilant for possible aftershocks and avoiding coastal cliffs until they are clear. Globally, this earthquake adds to the total of more than 1,200 earthquakes recorded near Peru in 2025, reinforcing the importance of preparedness in subduction zones.
