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Tarpaca, Chile Earthquake
South America: Tarapaca, Chile Earthquake
7.9 Magnitude - June 13, 2005
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A major earthquake of 7.9 preliminary magnitude occurred
in the area of Tarapaca, Chile on June 13, 2005.The
earthquake's focus was at a depth of approximately 111 km (69
miles). Distances to major cities: 115 km (70 miles) ENE of
Iquique, Chile; 200 km (125 miles) SE of Arica, Chile; 240 km
(150 miles) SSE of Tacna, Peru; and 1515 km (940 miles) N of
SANTIAGO, Chile.
Several people were killed and widespread damage occurred
throughout the mountain villages near the epicenter. The relatively
small number of casualties for an earthquake of this size are
a result of the earthquake occurring in an area of low population.
A destructive tsunami was not generated.
Earthquakes in this area are normally associated with
subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.
This subduction is responsible for earthquakes and volcanic
activity all along the western coast of South America.
Illustration
from USGS
Illustration from USGS
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