Earthquakes in Chile

5.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Antofagasta, Chile in November 2011

This local scaled map shows an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8

that occurred in Antofagasta, Chile in November 2011. The red dot in
the center of the white circle refers to the aforementioned earthquake.
Red dots surrounding the circle show other earthquakes that have
occurred- the larger the circle, the stronger the earthquake. On this
local scale, a pattern can be seen of earthquakes occurring on the
Western tip of Chile. This frequency is derived from forces between the
Nazca plate and the North American plate. As scale grows, this
frequency in this location becomes more evident. Although there is a
frequency, earthquakes are still unpredictable. For the residents of
these regions, the best thing they can do is plan ahead. They can do
this by preparing emergency kits that foster all the basic necessities to
survive (first aid kits, water, food, etc.).
Earthquakes on the Northern-eastern Tip of Chile
This regional scaled image of the Northern-eastern tip of Chile
exemplifies the high frequency of earthquakes in the region. Again, the
reason for this frequency is due to the forces between the plates. This
specific part of Chile is located on top of the Nazca plate & North
American plate. The forces from these plates are evident in the
neighboring mountains seen in the image. Although the populace in
this region cannot predict an earthquake, they can certainly prepare
for one. It is very important for residents of Chile to be prepare, but it is
more crucial for residents of the cities in the image to be prepared.

Given the frequency of earthquakes, they should always have an

emergency kit available & an emergency plan with their families.

Earthquakes in South America

This global scaled map shows earthquakes that have occurred in South
America and even a part of Africa. The red dots in the image symbolize
earthquakes- the larger the dot, the stronger the earthquake. In this
image, it is evident how frequent earthquakes occur in Chile. The
cluster of red dots on Chile is also on the Nazca & North American
plates. Being pushed by two plates, earthquakes become more likely. In

this image, it shows that that is the only region in South America where
earthquakes are consistent; again, because it is located between these
plates. The Chilean government has concocted emergency protocol for
when earthquakes occur in these regions. Given the frequency, the
Chilean government, and I, advise the residents of Chile, and even
Peru, to always be prepared. Earthquakes cannot be detected, until it is
too late. In order to combat this unfortunate fact, it is crucial for
Chileans to prepare emergency kits and prepare themselves for the
worst case scenario.