Chile: A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in northern Antofagasta Region at around 12:37 CLST Nov. 23

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in northern Antofagasta Region in Chile at around 12:37 CLST Nov. 23. The epicenter was about 71 km (44 miles) north-northeast of Calama. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 117 km (73 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of central and northern Antofagasta and central and southern Tarapaca regions in Chile, western Potosi Department in Bolivia, and western Jujuy Province 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. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

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.