Skip to main content
10 Nov 2023 | 03:48 PM UTC

Chile: A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs off the southwest coast of Atacama Region at around 12:27 Nov. 10

A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs off Atacama Region, Chile, at around 12:27 Nov. 10. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Informational

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean off the southwest coast of Chile's Atacama Region at around 12:27 Nov. 10. The epicenter was about 136 km (85 miles) north-northwest of La Serena, Coquimbo Region. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 9 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of central and southern Atacama and northern Coquimbo regions in Chile and northwestern San Juan 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. 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.

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