Chile: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in western Antofagasta Region Nov. 27

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in western Antofagasta Region at around 07:08 Nov. 27. The epicenter was about 109 km (68 miles) south-southeast of Antofagasta. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 61 km (38 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of central and northern Antofagasta and northern Atacama regions in Chile and into northwestern Catamarca and western Salta provinces in Argentina. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and 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.