Chile’s central region has been shaken by further tremors, with the largest registering 6.9 in magnitude on the Richter scale, as the country continues to get back on its feet following the 8.8-earthquake on 27 February.
The biggest aftershock, recorded at 11.39am on Thursday 11 March, was felt strongly in both the Chilean capital Santiago and its surrounding regions, including Rancagua, San Fernando and Valparaíso.
The Chilean Exporters Association (Asoex) said with the exception of a short-term gap in arrivals this week, late-season shipments from Chile should be relatively normal.
According to Asoex, the authorities evacuated major coastal areas as a precaution in case of possible flooding. But the Rapel Dam, located close to the epicentre of the tremors, did not suffer any damage whatsoever.
Some areas also experienced temporary cuts in electricity supply, Asoex said.
“The tremors which we have felt have been intense, but have not caused major damage to the industries infrastructure or ports,” explained Asoex chairman Ronald Bown.
“We have received some reports in some rural areas of packing facilities temporarily closing during the day in order to allow workers to check on their homes and family, but apart from this the industry and ports keep on working to full capacity”.
Chile’s new President, Sebastian Piñera, has reportedly said it will cost at least US$30bn to rebuild the South American country following the February earthquake.
