PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, on behalf of the Government and people of Sint Maarten, has expressed solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Peru following the powerful earthquake that struck the country on Thursday, August 20, 2026.
The earthquake occurred at approximately 1:00 p.m. local time, with its epicentre near Coracora in the Ayacucho region. The Geophysical Institute of Peru recorded a magnitude of 7.2, while the United States Geological Survey reported a magnitude of 6.7. Tremors were felt across several regions, including the capital, Lima.
Preliminary reports indicate that persons were injured and that homes, healthcare facilities, a school and other infrastructure sustained damage. Peruvian authorities continue to assess the full impact of the earthquake.
“The Government and people of Sint Maarten stand in solidarity with the people of Peru during this deeply unsettling time. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured, the families whose homes and communities were affected, and everyone experiencing fear and uncertainty in the aftermath of this powerful earthquake,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated.
“We also extend our profound gratitude to the emergency personnel, healthcare workers, public officials and volunteers responding on the ground. Their courage and dedication are essential as communities assess the damage and begin the process of recovery,” the Prime Minister continued.
Based on the information available at the time of publication, no fatalities had been confirmed. Prime Minister Mercelina expressed hope that this would remain the case while assessments continue.
“This earthquake is a sobering reminder that natural disasters can occur suddenly and without warning. As a small island country vulnerable to several natural hazards, Sint Maarten must never become complacent. Preparedness must remain a shared responsibility embraced by the Government, the private sector, our communities and every household,” Prime Minister Mercelina said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that solidarity must extend beyond geographical boundaries, particularly when lives and communities are threatened by disaster.
“In moments of crisis, distance does not diminish our shared humanity. Today, Sint Maarten stands with Peru. We pray for the continued safety of its people, strength for the affected families and wisdom for the authorities coordinating the national response,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated.
“We have every confidence in the courage and resilience of the Peruvian people. May the affected communities find comfort in the support being extended from throughout the region and across the world, and may their recovery be safe, swift and complete,” the Prime Minister concluded.
