Chile: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs off northern Coquimbo Region at around 01:01 Sept. 17

Event

A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred just off the coast of northern Coquimbo Region at around 01:01 Sept. 17. The epicenter was about 54 km (34 miles) north of La Serena. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 41 km (25 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout northern Coquimbo and southern Atacama regions in Chile and parts of northwestern San Juan Province in Argentina. 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 possible 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.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.