Chile: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs just offshore of far southern Valparaiso Region at around 00:42 March 12

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred just offshore of far southern Valparaiso Region at around 00:42 March 12. The epicenter was about 86 km (53 miles) west-southwest of San Antonio. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 13 km (8 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of Valparaiso, Metropolitan, O'Higgins, and Maule regions. 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. 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.