Strong earthquake shakes San Pedro de Atacama: more than 50 aftershocks keep the population on alert.

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 on the Richter scale shook San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile on Saturday night, triggering more than 50 aftershocks that have kept the population on alert. This earthquake, felt in several regions of the country and even in Peru and Bolivia, has so far resulted in one fatality in the city of Calama and damage to some mining companies in the area, as reported by the National Service for Prevention and Reduction of Disaster Risks (Senapred). The aftershocks, which have not stopped since the main event, have kept the earth constantly moving in the Antofagasta Region, causing concern among the population still recovering from the impact of the initial earthquake. As of the time of this news report, 54 aftershocks had been recorded, many of them noticeable to the residents of the area. The epicenter of the earthquake was located 20 kilometers south of San Pedro de Atacama and lasted for more than a minute, shaking strongly throughout northern Chile. The fact that it was also felt in neighboring regions and bordering countries demonstrates the magnitude of the event and the importance of being prepared for such natural disasters. The regional director of Senapred, Ricardo Munizaga Cuevas, confirmed that some mining companies suffered damage as a result of the earthquake, which are being closely monitored by both the companies themselves and the authorities of Sernageomin and Mining. It is essential to assess and repair these damages to ensure the safety of the workers and prevent possible future incidents. So far, no further fatalities or major damage to infrastructure or basic services have been reported in the affected area. Local authorities have worked tirelessly to restore normalcy as soon as possible and provide support to the population affected by this unfortunate event. It is important to remember the importance of prevention and preparedness in emergency situations like this. Earthquakes are natural phenomena that can occur at any time, so it is essential to have contingency plans and follow the recommendations of authorities to minimize risks and protect our lives. Solidarity and community collaboration are key in moments like this, where unity and mutual support are essential to overcome adversity. It is necessary to remain calm, follow the instructions of emergency agencies, and be attentive to any developments that may arise in the coming hours. The earthquake in San Pedro de Atacama has been a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared to face challenges with determination and solidarity. In times of crisis, the strength and unity of a society are most evident, and it is crucial to work together to move forward and rebuild what may have been affected.