Chile: Magnitude-6.0 earthquake occurs just offshore of far southern Atacama Region at around 22:31 Feb. 13

A magnitude-6.0 earthquake occurred just offshore of far southern Atacama Region at around 22:31 Feb. 13. The epicenter was about 83 km (52 miles) west-southwest of Vallenar, Chile. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 22 km (14 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of southern and central Atacama and northern and central Coquimbo regions in Chile and northwestern San Juan Province in Argentina. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.