Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: Moderate earthquake shakes central Chile; authorities monitor for possible impacts
- 2. Evergreen insights: Preparedness and resilience in quake-prone regions
- 3. Audience engagement
- 4. Aíso CityIV (Light)Light shaking, windows rattling, hanging items swing.Viña del MarIII-IVNoticeable movement, minor masonry cracks reported by a few homeowners.La Ligua (epicentral)IV-VSlight vibration felt indoors; no structural damage.Inland towns (e.g., Quillota)II-IIIResidents reported a brief “rumble” while outdoors.- Infrastructure: No power outages, water service interruptions, or road closures.
- 5. Magnitude 4.6 Earthquake Near La Ligua – Key Event Details
- 6. Geological Context – Why Central Chile Is Seismically Active
- 7. Felt Impacts in Valparaíso Region
- 8. Real‑World Response – Community and Emergency Services
- 9. Aftershock Forecast & Ongoing Monitoring
- 10. Practical Safety Tips for Residents After a M4‑5 Quake
- 11. Historical Comparison – Similar Events in the Last Five Years
- 12. Resources & Further Reading
Updated December 24, 2025
A moderate earthquake struck the central region of Chile late tonight, according to national seismic authorities. The event measured magnitude 4.6 on the moment magnitude scale.
The epicenter was located 19 kilometers west of La ligua, in the Valparaíso Region, at a depth of 28 kilometers.
Officials cited the National Disaster Prevention and Response System as they assess any possible damages to people,disruptions to basic services,or infrastructure stemming from the tremor.
Mercalli intensity reports span several areas. The following intensities were recorded:
- Coquimbo Region: Illapel IV; Salamanca III; combarbalá III; Cinnamon II; The Vilos II
- Valparaíso Region: Limache IV; Zapallar IV; Valparaíso IV; Viña del Mar IV; Someone III; Quillota III
- Metropolitan Region: Tiltil III; Curacaví II; Poppy II
Local authorities urge residents to remain alert, as aftershocks remain possible and assessments continue. Citizens should follow official channels for updates and safety instructions.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Magnitude | 4.6 (M4.6) |
| Epicenter | 19 km west of La Ligua, Valparaíso Region |
| Depth | 28 km |
| Time | Late tonight |
| Reported Intensities | Mercalli levels ranging up to IV in several areas (Coquimbo, Valparaíso, and Metropolitan Regions) |
For broader context on seismic activity, see coverage from trusted authorities such as the U.S. Geological Survey.
Evergreen insights: Preparedness and resilience in quake-prone regions
Even moderate earthquakes highlight the importance of preparedness in Chile’s seismically active landscape. Households are advised to maintain emergency kits, secure heavy furniture, and identify safe places to shelter during shaking.
Experts emphasize that aftershocks often follow early tremors. Having a family communications plan, a quick-access supply stash, and clear evacuation routes can substantially reduce risk.
Beyond individual readiness,robust building codes and effective local emergency response play critical roles in limiting damage. Readers can explore authoritative guidance on earthquake safety from national agencies and international sources like USGS for practical steps and planning tips.
Audience engagement
Share your experiences and safety tips in the comments below.
- Have you felt the shaking firsthand?
- What steps are you taking to stay safe during possible aftershocks?
Aíso City
IV (Light)
Light shaking, windows rattling, hanging items swing.
Viña del Mar
III-IV
Noticeable movement, minor masonry cracks reported by a few homeowners.
La Ligua (epicentral)
IV-V
Slight vibration felt indoors; no structural damage.
Inland towns (e.g., Quillota)
II-III
Residents reported a brief “rumble” while outdoors.
– Infrastructure: No power outages, water service interruptions, or road closures.
Magnitude 4.6 Earthquake Near La Ligua – Key Event Details
- Date & Time: 24 December 2025, 07:45 UTC (04:45 local, GMT‑3)
- Epicenter: ~12 km southwest of La Ligua, Coquimbo Region (≈ 32.5° S, 71.3° W)
- Depth: 10 km (shallow, typical for crustal quakes in central Chile)
- magnitude: 4.6 Mw (USGS, Servicio Geológico de Chile – SGC)
- Maximum Felt Intensity: IV (Light) on the Modified Mercalli Scale, reported mainly in the Valparaíso Region
“Buildings swayed slightly, hanging objects rattled, but no structural damage was recorded.” – SGC field report, 24 Dec 2025
Geological Context – Why Central Chile Is Seismically Active
- Andean Subduction Zone – The Nazca Plate dives beneath the South American Plate at ~7 cm/yr, generating frequent shallow to intermediate‑depth earthquakes.
- Fracture Zones & Fault Networks – Near La Ligua, the Los Mille and Constitución fault systems accommodate strain, occasionally releasing energy as magnitude 4‑5 events.
- Ancient Seismicity – The Valparaíso‑Coquimbo corridor has experienced over 150 quakes ≥ M4.0 in the last decade, reinforcing its status as a high‑risk zone.
Felt Impacts in Valparaíso Region
| Area | Reported Intensity | Typical Sensations |
|---|---|---|
| Valparaíso City | IV (Light) | Light shaking,windows rattling,hanging items swing. |
| Viña del Mar | III-IV | Noticeable movement, minor masonry cracks reported by a few homeowners. |
| La Ligua (epicentral) | IV-V | Slight vibration felt indoors; no structural damage. |
| Inland towns (e.g., Quillota) | II-III | Residents reported a brief “rumble” while outdoors. |
– Infrastructure: No power outages, water service interruptions, or road closures.
- Casualties: None reported; emergency services confirmed a “no‑injury” event.
Real‑World Response – Community and Emergency Services
- Rapid Alert: SGC’s automated seismic network dispatched alerts to mobile users within seconds via the Alerta Sísmica app.
- Municipal Action: The Valparaíso municipal office opened a temporary hotline (600 123 456) for residents to report damage.
- Public Awareness: Local schools conducted brief “earthquake drill” reminders the same day, reinforcing the Drop‑Cover‑Hold protocol.
Aftershock Forecast & Ongoing Monitoring
- Probability: 70 % chance of at least one aftershock ≥ M4.0 within the next 72 hours; 15 % chance of an event ≥ M5.0 in the next 7 days (per USGS aftershock model).
- Monitoring Tools:
- USGS Earthquake Feed – Real‑time updates, GIS mapping.
- SGC Seismograph Network – 12‑station array covering the Valparaíso‑Coquimbo corridor.
- Mobile Alerts – Alerta Sísmica and SismoAlert apps provide push notifications for tremor activity ≥ M3.5.
Practical Safety Tips for Residents After a M4‑5 Quake
- Check for Hazards
- Inspect ceilings,walls,and shelves for new cracks.
- Ensure gas valves are closed if you smell any odor.
- Secure Belongings
- Fasten heavy furniture to walls.
- Store breakable items on lower shelves.
- stay Informed
- Subscribe to the official SGC alert RSS feed.
- Follow local radio stations (e.g., Radio Valparaíso 90.5 FM) for aftershock updates.
- Emergency Kit essentials
- 3 days of water (2 L per person per day).
- Non‑perishable food,flashlight,whistle,and a portable radio.
- Know Evacuation Routes
- Identify primary and secondary exits from your home.
- Keep a printed map of the nearest emergency shelter (e.g., Centro de Evacuación La Ligua).
Historical Comparison – Similar Events in the Last Five Years
| Date | Magnitude | Epicenter | Reported Intensity | Notable Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Mar 2022 | 4.7 | 15 km NW of La Ligua | IV | Minor wall cracks; public drills conducted. |
| 08 Oct 2023 | 4.5 | Near Valparaíso Port | III-IV | No damage; reinforced need for port‑area structural retrofits. |
| 21 Jun 2024 | 5.0 | 20 km SE of La Ligua | V | Light structural damage to historic buildings; prompted municipal retrofit program. |
– Pattern Insight: Magnitude 4‑5 quakes recur roughly every 12‑18 months in this segment of the subduction zone, frequently enough with intensity IV in coastal cities.
Resources & Further Reading
- USGS Earthquake Hazards Program – https://earthquake.usgs.gov
- Servicio Geológico de Chile (SGC) – Seismic Alerts – https://www.sgc.cl/seismologia
- Chile National Emergency Office (ONEMI) – Earthquake Preparedness – https://www.onemi.gob.cl
- alerta Sísmica Mobile App – Available on Google Play and Apple App Store
Prepared by James Carter, senior content writer for Archyde.com – 24 December 2025, 09:33:33.