Chile Hit by 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake: Maps Show Impact

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Chile on Thursday evening, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake occurred near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, and seismologists are currently reviewing data which may lead to a revision of the reported magnitude. Aftershocks are expected in the region, with the potential for these smaller earthquakes to continue for days, weeks, or even years after the initial tremor. Aftershocks can be of equal or larger magnitude than the initial earthquake and can further impact areas already damaged by the main quake. The U.S.G.S. has provided a shake-severity map showing areas where the intensity was measured as 4 or above, considered “light” but may still be felt outside the marked regions. These shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. The aftershock data provided includes earthquakes occurring within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. The map and data were last updated on Thursday evening for the main quake and Friday morning for aftershocks. The situation is still developing, and more information may be released as seismologists continue to analyze the data.

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