On June 23, 2001, southern Peru experienced a catastrophic earthquake with a magnitude of 8.4 Mw, one of the most potent seismic events recorded in the region. The earthquake's epicenter was located off the coast, causing intense shaking felt widely across southern Peru. The depth of the quake was approximately 39 kilometers, a factor that influenced the degree of surface shaking and subsequent damage. The earthquake generated waves that formed a devastating tsunami, impacting coastal villages and towns, compounding the disaster's toll on human life and infrastructure.

In the aftermath, the coastal regions were left reeling as emergency services struggled to reach those in need. Local hospitals were overwhelmed with casualties, and communities faced challenges such as power outages and disruptions in communication. Recovery efforts were complicated by the ongoing aftershocks, which continued to shake the region, causing panic among residents and hampering rescue operations. The government of Peru mobilized assistance and international aid began arriving to support recovery efforts.

Local populations faced not just physical injuries but also emotional trauma as homes were destroyed and lives altered forever. As the dust settled, the scale of the destruction came into focus. Many areas reported extensive damages to buildings, roads, and other vital infrastructure, which took years to rehabilitate fully. This natural disaster underscored the region's vulnerability to seismic activity and initiated discussions on disaster preparedness and urban planning to mitigate future risk.