Chile: Magnitude-6.6 earthquake strikes off the coast of Atacama Region at around 09:33 Oct. 31 /update 1

A magnitude-6.6 earthquake occurred off the coast of Atacama region, Chile, at around 09:33 Oct. 31. The epicenter was about 82 km (51 miles) west-southwest of Vallenar, Atacama Region. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 35 km (22 miles), and strong-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of southwestern Atacama and northwestern Coquimbo regions close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of north-central Chile and into northwestern Argentina. Initial reports have indicated landslides have occurred in areas near the epicenter but there has been no official confirmation of any casualties or significant damage. Chile's National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) has reported that more than 2,000 customers in La Serena Commune in Coquimbo Region are without power. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The Pacific Tsunami Warning has advised that there is no tsunami threat from this quake.

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.