A 6.1 magnitude earthquake hit northern Chile with no immediate casualties or damage reported. The quake’s center was 104 km southwest of San Pedro de Atacama. Chilean authorities are assessing impacts, noting that no tsunami warning was issued and that the earthquake was classified as medium intensity. Chile’s preparedness has improved since the 2010 earthquake.
On Thursday, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake occurred in northern Chile, an area renowned for its geological activity due to the “Ring of Fire.” Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage, and no tsunami warning was issued by authorities.
The earthquake’s epicenter was identified by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as being located 104 kilometers southwest of San Pedro de Atacama, a town nearby the Chile-Bolivia border. It struck at 12:21 PM local time, with a depth of 93 kilometers.
Chile’s national disaster agency reported that the quake was considered to have medium intensity. They are continuing their assessments for any potential damages, emphasizing that the earthquake did not fulfill the criteria necessary to trigger a tsunami along the coast.
Chile is situated in the “Ring of Fire,” a tectonic zone that stretches from Chile to Alaska, characterized by frequent earthquakes and tsunamis due to colliding tectonic plates.
Chileans remember the devastating 8.8-magnitude earthquake in 2010, which resulted in 526 fatalities and a tsunami. In response to that disaster, authorities have implemented enhanced emergency protocols and have equipped buildings with shock-absorbing technologies to mitigate future quake-related damages.
The recent 6.1 magnitude earthquake in northern Chile did not cause injuries or damage, reinforcing the country’s preparedness since the catastrophic 2010 earthquake. Authorities are monitoring the situation and emphasize that no tsunami threat exists. Continued vigilance and equipment upgrades highlight Chile’s commitment to disaster response and infrastructure safety.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
