Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake Strikes Northern Chile with No Reported Damage
On March 6, 2025, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck northern Chile without causing injuries or damage. The quake occurred southwest of San Pedro de Atacama, at a depth of 93 kilometers, and no tsunami warning was issued. Chile’s disaster agency assessed it as medium intensity and will continue evaluations.
A magnitude 6.1 earthquake occurred in northern Chile on Thursday, causing no immediate casualties or damage reports. The earthquake struck at 12:21 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located 104 kilometers (64 miles) southwest of San Pedro de Atacama. Fortunately, no tsunami warning was issued for the area, and the earthquake was classified as of “medium intensity” by Chile’s national disaster agency.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake at a depth of 93 kilometers (58 miles). Chile’s national disaster agency is currently assessing for any possible damage, although they confirmed the event did not meet the criteria to generate a tsunami along the coast.
Chile resides within the “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plate interactions often lead to seismic activities. This earthquake serves as a reminder of the country’s vulnerability to such events, particularly after the devastating magnitude 8.8 earthquake in 2010 that resulted in a tsunami and the loss of 526 lives. In response to previous disasters, Chilean authorities have implemented improved emergency protocols and invested in building technologies designed to minimize earthquake damage.
In conclusion, the recent magnitude 6.1 earthquake in northern Chile resulted in no reported injuries or damage. This event, occurring in a seismically active region, underscores the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness for future earthquakes. The improvements in disaster response and building safety since the catastrophic 2010 earthquake have significantly enhanced the country’s resilience against seismic threats.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
