Scientists Predict Major Earthquake in Chile’s Mineral-Rich North

Scientists forecast a major earthquake imminent in northern Chile, where the nation’s primary copper and lithium deposits are located. Historical data indicates a significant quake occurs approximately every decade, and current geological activity suggests stress is building in the region. Experts, utilizing advanced GPS technology, are unable to specify the exact timing but are closely monitoring seismic indicators.

SANTIAGO — On February 27, fifteen years ago, southern Chile experienced a catastrophic 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Concepcion’s coast, lasting four minutes and triggering a tsunami that resulted in 550 fatalities. This earthquake was the most deadly natural disaster in Chile since the historic 1960 quake, which, at 9.5 magnitude, remains the strongest ever recorded globally. Currently, scientists are predicting the occurrence of another significant earthquake in the mineral-rich northern region of Chile.

Chile is known as the world’s foremost copper producer and the second-largest producer of lithium. The northern part of the country is home to its largest copper mines as well as all lithium production. Felipe Leyton, a seismologist at the University of Chile, emphasized that “every 10 years there’s a big event,” highlighting the buildup of geological stress in specific regions.

The country spans a length of 4,300 kilometers (2,672 miles) and has an average width of 180 kilometers (112 miles), with the Andes mountain range running along its western border. Situated on the seismically active Ring of Fire, Chile experiences constant tectonic activity due to the collision of the Nazca and South American plates. This geological context makes earthquakes a regular concern for the nation.

Dr. Mohama Ayaz, a geologist and geospatial engineer at the University of Santiago, stated that GPS technology enables scientists to track tectonic plate movement and anticipate potential seismic events. “We obviously can’t say exactly when, but we can anticipate them,” he noted, explaining that earthquakes result from the accumulated stress on fault lines since the last seismic event.

Dr. Ayaz pointed out that there has been no large release of tectonic stress in northern Chile similar to the significant activity witnessed in the south in 2010. Therefore, he anticipates that a major earthquake in the north is a realistic expectation, although the exact timing remains uncertain.

In summary, scientists are anticipating a significant earthquake in northern Chile, a region rich in mineral resources, including copper and lithium. The geological conditions, coupled with historical patterns of seismic activity, indicate that stress in the earth’s crust is building up. While the exact timing of this anticipated earthquake remains uncertain, experts are using advanced technology to monitor the tectonic movements that could lead to such an event.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com