The USGS reported that the tremor occurred 41 kilometers southeast of San Pedro de Atacama, at a depth of 128 kilometers.
The United States Geological Survey reported a magnitude-7.3 earthquake in Antofagasta, Chile, on Thursday.
The earthquake hit at 9:51 p.m. (local time), with no immediate reports of damage.
According to the AFP, no tsunami warnings have been issued thus far.
In January, a magnitude-5.3 earthquake struck Tarapaca in northern Chile at a depth of 118 kilometers. No losses were recorded at the time.
Chile is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. It is located in the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” a seismically active zone where many of Earth’s volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur.
It has experienced some of the world’s biggest known earthquakes, including a 9.5-magnitude quake near the southern city of Valdivia in 1960.
In 2010, an 8.8-magnitude earthquake and tsunami killed over 500 people.
History of earthquakes in Chile.
Here are some of the main earthquakes in Chilean history:
In 1965, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck La Ligua, killing 400 people.
1971: 7.5 magnitude in the Valparaiso area, 90 deaths.
1985: 7.8-magnitude offshore Valparaiso; 177 deaths.
1998: 7.1 magnitude near the coast of northern Chile.
2002: 6.6 magnitude near the Chile-Argentina border area.
2003: 6.8 magnitude along the coast of central Chile.
2004: 6.6 magnitude at Bio-Bio in central Chile.
2005: 7.8 magnitude. Tarapaca, northern Chile, 11 deaths.
2007: 7.7 magnitude in Antofagasta, north Chile, two killed.
2007: 6.7 magnitude in Antofagasta.
2008: 6.3 magnitude at Tarapaca.
2009: 6.5-magnitude offshore Tarapaca.
What To Do During An Earthquake
In the case of an earthquake, it is important to remain calm and comfort people.
During the event, always opt for the safest location: an open space away from buildings.
Indoors, individuals should take refuge behind a desk, table, or bed and avoid glass panes and windows.
Keeping cool, one should not rush out of the building, since this may result in a stampede.
If outside, walk away from buildings and utility lines, and stop any moving vehicles immediately.
It is important to remember to release any pets and domestic animals so that they may flee and to remain outside until the vibrations stop.
It is also urged not to use candles or matches and to extinguish all flames.
