The quake was felt in Santiago, the capital of Chile, after a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck northwest Argentina on Monday night. Several injuries were reported, but there have been no official reports of deaths so far.
The powerful quake struck 18 miles (29 km) west-southwest of the Argentine city of Pocito and reached a depth of 12 miles (20 km), according to the United States Geological Survey. Several strong aftershocks have rocked the region since the initial earthquake, ranging in magnitude from 4.8 to 5.3.
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The site of the strong earthquake that hit northwest Argentina on the night of Monday, January 18, 2021. (United States Geological Survey) |
Collapsed buildings and cracks in the roads were seen in videos posted on Twitter from the province of San Juan, Argentina. Goods were also seen scattered across the market floor, and some power cuts were reported.
San Juan Governor Sergio Uñac urged families to remain calm after the earthquakes.
“Let us put into practice all the measures we have learned to prevent incidents, while committing ourselves to knowing the impact of the (earthquake) to collaborate in whatever is necessary,” he said. Twitter.
According to La Vaz, Governor Sergio Uñac said three injuries were reported, one of which was serious.
The governor suspended the COVID-19 vaccination for the province of San Juan for one day only on tuesday after the earthquake.
No damage was reported in neighboring Chile, according to The Associated Press.
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Meteorologists predict dry mid-week weather as cleaning and recovery efforts increase, but temperatures will be exceptionally high, which can add to a complicating factor.
“High temperatures across the area can reach almost 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C) on Tuesday, with AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures at 100 s F (38-39 C) for much of the afternoon,” said the meteorologist. AccuWeather Mary Gilbert.
“Any resident who needs to clean up debris or repair damage to the outdoors must take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion.”
Drinking plenty of water, as well as taking frequent breaks in the shade, can help prevent heat-related illnesses.
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