An earthquake measuring magnitude 6.1 has struck in northern Peru, according to the US Geological Survey.

The quake struck around 50km north-northeast of the city of Moyobamba at a depth of 114 kilometres.

Moyobamba is the capital city of the San Martin Region and is home to over 40,000 people.

The epicentre of the quake is thought to be deep in the rainforest, according to the Daily Express.

