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01 Nov 2018 | 11:01 PM UTC

Chile: 6.2-magnitude earthquake shakes northern Chile

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake shakes northern Chile’s Tarapacá region; no tsunami warning issued, no reports of damage or casualties

Warning

Event

The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a 6.2-magnitude earthquake in northern Chile at 19:18 (local time) on Thursday, November 1. The earthquake's epicenter was located 88 km (55 mi) northeast of the port city of Iquique (Tarapacá region) at a depth of 98 km (61 mi). The USGS did not issue a tsunami warning and as of 19:50, there were no reports of serious damage or casualties.

Context

Chile is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an active seismic zone, and frequently experiences strong earthquakes.

Advice

Individuals in northern Chile are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate further aftershocks in the coming hours, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.

During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.