7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Peru: "Possible Tsunami waves..."

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a warning that tsunami waves between 1 and 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) could potentially hit parts of the Peruvian coastline.

"Based on all available data, hazardous tsunami waves are forecast for some coasts," the center stated, urging the public to remain vigilant.

Tsunami Warning

Peru's Geophysical Institute (IGP) also issued a tsunami warning, which is one level below a tsunami alert, indicating that authorities should activate protective protocols for the public.

The earthquake occurred about 600 kilometers (372 miles) south of the capital, Lima, and 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of Atiquipa.

Peru and the Pacific coast of South America are situated along the boundary of two tectonic plates: the South American plate, which covers the continent, and the Nazca plate, which stretches along the Pacific coast.