Chile: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs off the coast of Valparaiso Region at around 07:59 CLT May 4

Event

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred off the northwest coast of Valparaiso Region at around 07:59 CLT May 4. The epicenter was about 65 km (40 miles) west-northwest of La Ligua. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 19 km (12 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout Valparaiso, Santiago Metropolitan, southern and central Coquimbo, and northern O'Higgins regions in Chile and into southwestern San Juan and northwestern Mendoza provinces in Argentina. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. The earthquake was preceded by magnitude-5.0 and magnitude-4.8 quakes in the same location over the previous hours and further light aftershocks are likely over the coming hours and 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.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.