Chile: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near coast of Bio-Bio Region at around 19:31 Aug. 18

A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred near the coast of Chile's Bio-Bio Region at around 19:31 Aug. 18. The epicenter was about 59 km (37 miles) west-northwest of Arauco. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 7 km (4 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Bio-Bio Region; light shaking may have also been felt in parts of Araucania, Maule, and Nuble regions. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; 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 where shaking occurred.