Chile: A magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs off Coquimbo Region at around 01:40 Dec. 30

A magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurred off Coquimbo Region in Chile at around 01:40 Dec. 30. The epicenter was about 69 km (43 miles) west of Coquimbo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout Coquimbo and southern Atacama regions in Chile and far western San Juan Province in Argentina. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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. 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.