The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 struck 265 kilometers east of Antofagasta, Chile, at a depth of 128 kilometers. The quake occurred at 9:51 PM local time, and no immediate damage has been reported.
AFP notes that no tsunami warning has been issued in the aftermath of the tremor. Earlier this year, in January, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake hit the northern Chilean region of Tarapaca at a depth of 118 kilometers, but it did not result in any significant damage.
Chile is known for its seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” a region notorious for its volcanic eruptions and frequent earthquakes. The country has experienced some of the most powerful earthquakes on record, including the 9.5 magnitude quake in Valdivia in 1960, which remains the strongest ever recorded. In 2010, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake and the subsequent tsunami resulted in over 500 fatalities.
Major Earthquakes in Chile’s History:
- 1965: 7.4 magnitude in La Ligua, resulting in 400 deaths
- 1971: 7.5 magnitude in the Valparaiso region, with 90 deaths
- 1985: 7.8 magnitude offshore Valparaiso, causing 177 deaths
- 1998: 7.1 magnitude near the northern coast of Chile
- 2002: 6.6 magnitude at the Chile-Argentina border
- 2003: 6.8 magnitude near the central Chilean coast
- 2004: 6.6 magnitude near Bio-Bio in central Chile
- 2005: 7.8 magnitude in Tarapaca, northern Chile, with 11 deaths
- 2007: 7.7 magnitude in Antofagasta, northern Chile, resulting in 2 deaths
- 2007: 6.7 magnitude in Antofagasta
- 2008: 6.3 magnitude in Tarapaca
- 2009: 6.5 magnitude offshore Tarapaca
Safety Tips During an Earthquake:
- Remain calm and reassure those around you.
- Seek shelter in an open area away from buildings.
- If indoors, take cover under a sturdy desk, table, or bed, and stay away from glass and windows.
- Avoid rushing outside to prevent injuries from potential stampedes.
- If outside, move away from buildings, utility wires, and stop moving vehicles.
- Ensure pets and animals are safe and remain in the open until the shaking stops.
- Avoid using candles or matches, and extinguish any fires.
Stay informed and follow local emergency guidelines to ensure safety during seismic events.