M 5.1 - 75 km NE of Tocopilla, Chile

Name: M 5.1 - 75 km NE of Tocopilla, Chile
Start: 2000-12-15T12:47:09+00:00
Location: 75 km NE of Tocopilla, Chile

December 15, 2000 at 12:47:09 UTC

Depth: 74.70 km (Intermediate)

Key Takeaway

This moderate earthquake (M5.1) occurred 25 years ago near 75 km NE of Tocopilla, Chile, at a depth of 74.70 km (intermediate).

M 5.1

Moderate

N/A

PAGER Alert

Tsunami

N/A

Felt Reports

Event Details

Magnitude	5.1 mb
Depth	74.70 km (Intermediate)
Location	-21.5650S, 69.7360W
Tsunami Warning	No
Significance	400 / 3000
Status	Reviewed
Network	us
USGS Event Page	View on USGS →

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the magnitude of this earthquake?

This earthquake had a magnitude of 5.1, classified as "Moderate". Moderate earthquakes can cause damage to poorly constructed buildings.

How deep was this earthquake?

This earthquake occurred at a depth of 74.70 km, classified as "Intermediate". Intermediate-depth earthquakes are felt over a wider area but typically cause less surface damage than shallow events of the same magnitude.

Where exactly did this earthquake occur?

This earthquake occurred near 75 km NE of Tocopilla, Chile, at coordinates -21.5650S, 69.7360W. The location is determined by analyzing seismic wave arrival times at multiple monitoring stations.

Were there aftershocks associated with this event?

Aftershock data for this specific event can be explored by viewing nearby recent earthquakes listed below on this page. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that occur in the same area following a larger event, and they can continue for days, weeks, or even months depending on the original earthquake's magnitude.

What does the magnitude of this earthquake mean in practical terms?

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake is classified as "Moderate" — these are widely felt and can cause damage to vulnerable structures, though well-built buildings typically withstand them.

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Data from the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program (ComCat). QuakeScan is not affiliated with the USGS. Event details may be updated as new data becomes available.