A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the Tarapaca-Antofagasta border region of Chile on January 2, 2025. Recorded at a depth of approximately 99 km, the quake was felt by about 611,000 residents, prompting a Green alert for potential fatalities and economic losses. The population’s predominant housing is resistant to seismic events, though some vulnerable structures remain.
On January 2, 2025, at 20:43 UTC, a significant earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Moment Magnitude Scale struck the Tarapaca-Antofagasta border region of Chile. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of 99 kilometers (61 miles), while the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) recorded it at a depth of 91 kilometers (56 miles). The epicenter was positioned approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) north-northwest of Calama and 118 kilometers (74 miles) east-northeast of Tocopilla, both of which are located in the Antofagasta region.
The United States Geological Survey has estimated that around 169,000 individuals experienced moderate shaking, while an additional 442,000 felt light shaking from the seismic event. A Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses was issued, indicating a low likelihood of casualties and structural damage.
Chile’s population in this region generally resides within buildings that are engineered to withstand seismic activity. However, certain vulnerable construction types, such as adobe block and rubble/field stone masonry, remain susceptible to damage during earthquakes. Moreover, historical incidents in the area have posed risks from secondary hazards, including landslides, which may exacerbate losses during seismic events.
Chile is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area well-known for its seismic activity. The region experiences numerous earthquakes annually, ranging from minor tremors to significant quakes capable of causing substantial damage. The Tarapaca and Antofagasta regions are particularly vulnerable due to their geological characteristics and construction types that may not always adhere to earthquake-resistant standards. Understanding the potential impacts of seismic events is critical for emergency preparedness and risk management in these areas.
In summary, the recent M6.1 earthquake near the Tarapaca-Antofagasta border of Chile represents a notable seismic occurrence that, despite its magnitude, is not expected to cause significant casualties or damage. The overall resilience of the region’s infrastructure, paired with low population exposure to severe impacts, corresponds with the issued Green alert for this event. Continued awareness and preparedness are imperative in this seismically active area.
Original Source: watchers.news
