Peru hit by earthquake

A 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit central Peru today, the US Geological Survey said, but there were no immediate reports of any damage.

The quake struck some 180km southeast of Lima, near the coast, at a depth of 49km the service said.

Local radio network RPP reported that the earthquake woke local residents before dawn, but that there were no immediate reports of damages.

The centre of the earthquake was not near any mines. Peru is a major exporter of silver, copper and zinc.

Reuters