Devastating 7.2M earthquake rocks Peru — 12th major quake worldwide this year

A strong earthquake struck southern Ayacucho on Thursday, August 20, 2026, affecting the city of Pauza in the Pauca del Sarasara province. The seismic activity caused landslides on the slopes and ravines adjacent to the city, resulting in dense clouds of dust. The epicenter was located approximately 35 kilometers north of Coracora, in the neighboring province of Parinacochas.