EL LOA, Antofagasta — A 6.9 magnitude quake rocked near Calama on Monday afternoon, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

The tremor, which rocked the region at 21:52 UTC (17:52 local time), was centered about 34 km east-northeast of Calama. It occurred at a depth of 109 km. The magnitude was originally reported as 6.7 but later upgraded to 6.9.

Did you feel it?

You can let the USGS know if you noticed the earthquake by filling out their Felt Report form. 84 people have submitted responses through the agency’s online form, reporting they felt strong shaking. According to the USGS DYFI report, residents in several cities — including Arequipa, Arica and Iquique — reported experiencing the quake.

Impact and estimated losses

The USGS categorized this as a Green Alert, which means there is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Structure information summary
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are adobe block and rubble/field stone masonry construction.

Last week’s tremor

There was another earthquake of magnitude 4.3 centered near Calama on May 23.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey