Great 8.5 Earthquake Near Vallenar, Chile
A great magnitude 8.5 earthquake struck 94 km ENE of Vallenar, Chile on Saturday, November 11, 1922 at 04:32:51 AM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (70.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 85 Mt of TNT. Here is the verified OFFICIAL telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(94 km ENE of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
8.5MW
Great Seismic Class
70.0km
Upper Mantle
28.293° S, 69.852° W
GPS Coordinates
85 Mt
TNT Equivalent Power
OFFICIAL
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 8.5 event is classified as a great earthquake. Devastating seismic event capable of near-total destruction across regional epicenters. Can generate destructive trans-oceanic tsunamis and aftershock sequences.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Considerable damage in ordinary buildings with partial collapse; heavy furniture overturned.
Considerable damage in ordinary buildings with partial collapse; heavy furniture overturned.
Considerable damage in ordinary buildings with partial collapse; heavy furniture overturned.
Difficult to stand. Damage negligible in good buildings; slight to moderate in ordinary structures.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Chile.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 8.5 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
This event occurred along the Peru-Chile (Andean) Subduction Zone, where the dense oceanic Nazca Plate slides eastward and plunges underneath the continental South American Plate at roughly 6 to 8 centimeters per year. This megathrust boundary is one of the most seismically active fault zones on Earth.
Originating at a depth of 70.0 km (Upper Mantle / Wadati-Benioff Zone (70–300 km)), this rupture occurred originated within the descending oceanic plate inside the upper mantle. shaking radiates over a wider geographic area with attenuated high frequencies.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Following an earthquake of magnitude 8.5, an active aftershock sequence is expected over the coming days and weeks. In accordance with Omori's Law and Båth's Law of seismology, secondary tremors decrease in frequency over time, with the largest expected aftershock historically averaging approximately 1.0 to 1.2 magnitude units below the mainshock. Local residents should remain vigilant for secondary shaking, particularly when inspecting older structures or unreinforced masonry.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
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