Strong 6.9 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern Chile

On May 25, a strong earthquake measuring 6.9 struck near Calama in northern Chile. The quake's epicenter was located 20 kilometers northeast of the city, reaching a depth of 114 kilometers. While the tremor was felt across northern regions, including areas north of Antofagasta, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. Chile, known for its seismic activity due to tectonic plate movements, continues to monitor such events closely.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2026, 03:53 IST

Significant Earthquake Near Calama

A significant earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale occurred close to Calama in northern Chile on Monday evening, as reported by the Centro Sismológico Nacional (CSN) at the University of Chile. The epicenter was identified approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Calama, situated in the Antofagasta Region, with a depth of 114 kilometers. The earthquake struck at 5:52 p.m. local time (21:52 UTC) on May 25.

The CSN, which is managed by the University of Chile, serves as the official body for earthquake monitoring and oversees the country's extensive seismic and strong-motion networks. Chile is recognized as one of the most seismically active nations globally, primarily due to the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.

The tremor was felt in various regions of northern Chile, including areas north of Antofagasta. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries following the quake.