A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck central Chile on Friday, affecting Santiago and the surrounding areas. Recorded at a depth of 100 kilometers, it highlights Chile’s location within the ‘Ring of Fire,’ known for significant seismic activity, where approximately 85 earthquakes occur monthly.
On Friday, a significant earthquake registering a magnitude of 6.4 struck central Chile, sending tremors that were felt in the capital city, Santiago. The event was recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) at a depth of 100 kilometers (62 miles) beneath the Earth’s surface. Tremors emanated from the Maule region, affecting areas as distant as Molina and Santiago, likely due to the earthquake’s considerable depth within the Earth’s crust.
Chile is situated along the renowned ‘Ring of Fire,’ a horseshoe-shaped zone notorious for its high seismic activity, including the majority of the world’s earthquakes and most of its active volcanoes. This region extends from the southern tip of South America, up the North American coastline, to the Bering Strait, and down through Japan and New Zealand. Chile’s geographical placement within this zone results in frequent seismic occurrences, highlighting a long-standing history of earthquakes in the country.
In conclusion, the recent 6.4 magnitude earthquake in central Chile serves as a reminder of the region’s active geological environment, shaped by its position on the ‘Ring of Fire.’ With over 10,000 earthquakes recorded in the last decade, Chile remains one of the most seismically active countries in the world, enduring approximately 85 earthquakes each month. The nation’s preparedness for such events plays a critical role in minimizing damage and protecting its population.
Original Source: www.newsx.com
