A major earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 struck Chile on Thursday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at 9:50 p.m. local time, about 28 miles southeast of San Pedro de Atacama. Seismologists are still reviewing data and may revise the reported magnitude. Aftershocks are expected to occur in the region, which are smaller earthquakes that follow a larger one. They can happen days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake and may have equal or greater magnitude. The U.S.G.S. is monitoring the situation and will update the shake-severity map as new information becomes available. The map shows areas where shaking intensity was 4 or greater, which the U.S.G.S. defines as “light,” but the earthquake may have been felt outside those areas. It is essential to be prepared and stay informed about earthquake risks and safety measures.
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