Northern Chile Shakes with Powerful 7.4 Magnitude Quake

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake hit northern Chile near its border with Argentina, striking southeast of San Pedro de Atacama. Occurring at a depth of 117 kilometers, this significant quake had no immediate reports of damage. Chile frequently experiences earthquakes, being situated on the 'Ring of Fire'.

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake hit northern Chile near its border with Argentina on Thursday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. There were no immediate reports of damage.

The earthquake struck at 9:51 p.m. Chilean time and had a depth of 117 kilometers. The epicenter was reported to be 45 kilometers southeast of San Pedro de Atacama.

Chile is part of the Pacific's 'Ring of Fire' and is accustomed to frequent seismic activity. A notable earthquake in 2010, with a magnitude of 8.8, triggered a tsunami that claimed 526 lives.

(With inputs from agencies.)