Chile: A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in northwestern Coquimbo Region at around 23:36 Sept. 22

A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in northwestern Coquimbo Region at around 23:36 Sept. 22. The epicenter was about 21 km (13 miles) north of La Serena. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 64 km (40 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in Coquimbo and southern Atacama regions in Chile and western 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.

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.