Callao Local Customs

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Because Callao is right on the water and is in an earthquake zone, they have an emergency evacuation procedure. Records only date back to the late sixteenth century, but since that time, large earthquakes centered off the Peruvian coast have generated several destructive tsunamis (1586, 1604, 1647, 1687, 1746, 1865, 1868, 1914, 1942, 1960, 1966, 1996). Of those listed, five were particularly destructive. These include the 1586, 1604, 1687 and 1746 tsunamis, as well as the 1868 Arica. In 1586 the waves reached an estimated 84 feet in height, and up to 6 miles of inland inundation in some locations.

Earthquakes (and thus tsunamis) originate due to seismic activity associated with the Peru-Chile Trench, located approximately 100 - 200 kilometers off the Peruvian coast.

Because of this ongoing danger, you will see Tsunami evacuation signs if you look for them along the main streets.

They had a smaller earthquake in 2007 and it was reported as

It was reported that when the earthquake began, sea levels rose by one meter and as movement continued sea levels rose another half of a meter.

Nevertheless, it has been reported that the ocean has returned to its normal state. Despite the information, many families living in La Punta, Callao have left their homes and are at Yawar Huaca Park. The evacuation has officially been stopped and officials are instructing citizens to return to their homes.