Chile: 5.2-magnitude earthquake reported in Tarapaca January 8

Event

The US Geological Survey recorded a 5.2-magnitude earthquake near the Bolivian border, around 145 km (90 mi) east of Iquique (Tarapaca) on Wednesday, January 8. The quake hit at around 05:47 (local time) at a depth of 109 km (67 mi). There were no immediate reports of injuries or significant infrastructure damage.

Aftershocks are possible in the affected area over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks.

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