The earthquake had an estimated moment magnitude (Mw ) of 7.7 and focal depth of 20 km (12 mi).

The occurrence of west-dipping thrust faults in the sub-Andean suggest the Amazonian Craton is actively underthrusted beneath the range.

[1] Reverse-faulting in the sub-Andes occur as a result of subduction-induced compression which could account for its deformation style.

The horizontal stresses on the range sides are stabilised by gravity acting on the high Andes and crustal buoyancy.

[3] A maximum Modified Mercalli intensity of IX (Violent) was assigned to an area immediately southeast of the epicenter.

Large portions of Brazil from Tabatinga and headwaters of the Acre River also felt the earthquake.

The peak ground acceleration was calculated at 309 mm (12.2 in) per second-squared in Satipo, based on evaluating a collapsed brick pilar.

[6] The earthquake destroyed or seriously damaged 63 percent of all adobe constructed homes in La Merced.

[4] A partially constructed church with thick brick walls and reinforced iron beams was razed.