Scientists Anticipate Major Earthquake in Chile’s Mineral-Rich North

Scientists predict a significant earthquake in northern Chile, where major copper and lithium production occurs. Following the 2010 8.8 magnitude quake in the south, geological stress is building up in the north. Experts use GPS technology to monitor tectonic movements and anticipate seismic events, advising that while timing is uncertain, an earthquake is likely in the near future.

On February 27, 2010, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Chile near Concepcion, resulting in a four-minute tremor and a devastating tsunami that claimed 550 lives. This event marked the deadliest natural disaster in Chile since the catastrophic 9.5 magnitude quake of 1960, which remains the strongest ever recorded worldwide. Presently, scientists are warning of an impending significant earthquake in the mineral-rich northern region of Chile.

Chile is recognized as the leading global producer of copper and the second largest producer of lithium, with its principal copper mines and lithium production concentrated in the northern part of the country. According to Felipe Leyton, a seismologist at the University of Chile, major earthquakes tend to occur every decade due to the accumulation of geological stress along various fault lines.

Leyton stated, “Every 10 years there’s a big event,” emphasizing the potential for a significant seismic event in the near future. Chile’s geographical orientation, spanning 4,300 kilometers long and an average of 180 kilometers wide, features the Andes mountain range along its western border. The country is situated on the Pacific Ocean’s seismic Ring of Fire, where active tectonic interactions between the Nazca and South American plates commonly trigger earthquakes.

Dr. Mohama Ayaz, a geologist and geospatial engineer from the University of Santiago of Chile, highlights that advancements in GPS technology empower scientists to closely monitor tectonic plate movements and predict potential seismic occurrences. He remarked, “We obviously can’t say exactly when, but we can anticipate them.” Ayaz further mentioned that the stress accumulation since the last seismic event is a critical factor in predicting earthquakes.

Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the northern region has not experienced a significant seismic release similar to that of the southern part of the country in 2010. “So what we’re expecting in the short term, is an earthquake in the north; we can’t say when, but we can wait for it,” Ayaz affirmed. The scientific community continues to observe these developments with caution and readiness.

The prediction of a major earthquake in northern Chile underscores the geological instability of the region, especially given the historical context of significant seismic events. With Chile’s critical role as a leading producer of copper and lithium, the implications of such a quake could be profound. Scientists stress the importance of monitoring geological stress and using advanced technology to anticipate seismic occurrences for better preparedness.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com