Argentina: A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in western Salta Province at around 06:40 ART Jan. 19

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in western Salta Province close to the border with Chile at around 06:40 ART Jan. 19. The epicenter was about 144 km (89 miles) north-northwest of Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 103 km (64 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western and central Salta, southwestern Jujuy, and northern Catamarca provinces in Argentina, and eastern and central Antofagasta and northeastern Coquimbo regions in Chile. 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.