5.6 magnitude earthquake struck near Santiago, Chile

On July 9, a magnitude-5.6 earthquake struck near Santiago, Chile at approximately 13:11 CLT. The epicenter of the earthquake was located about 31 km (19 miles) east-northeast of Chicureo Abajo. The earthquake occurred at a depth of around 101 km (63 miles). The areas closest to the epicenter, including Santiago, experienced moderate to strong shaking, while western provinces of Argentina felt weak to light shaking. As of now, there have been no reports of damage or casualties resulting from the earthquake, but it is important to note that damage is possible. Authorities will require several hours to assess the extent of the damage, particularly in remote areas. It is expected that there will be light aftershocks in the coming days.

As a precautionary measure, individuals are advised to temporarily evacuate multistory buildings in areas where shaking was experienced until the structural integrity of the buildings is confirmed by authorities. It is crucial to stay updated on the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks. Authorities may temporarily suspend transportation infrastructure in the affected region to inspect for damage. Although minor disruptions may occur during these shutdowns, services are likely to resume quickly if no damage is found. It is also possible that utility outages could happen, particularly in proximity to the epicenter of the earthquake.

In summary, it is advisable to exercise caution, stay informed about the situation through official channels, and follow the guidance of local authorities. Preparing for aftershocks and being mindful of any official announcements regarding the safety of buildings and transportation infrastructure is crucial during this time.

Image: AFP

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