WEEK 16: FINAL HAZARDS REPORT FOR CHILE

Chile's two most dangerous natural hazards are earthquakes and volcanic activity. As mentioned before, the country is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for intense tectonic activity. As a result, it experiences frequent earthquakes, including some of the strongest ever recorded. The subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate is responsible for these powerful seismic events.  The convergent boundary between the Nazca Plate and the South American Plate creates immense pressure as the plates collide and one dive beneath the other. The release of accumulated stress along the subduction zone can result in megathrust earthquakes, characterized by colossal energy release and significant ground shaking. 

Chile is also home to numerous active volcanoes, including some of the most active in the world. The presence of the Andes Mountains and the country's location along the Nazca-South American plate boundary contribute to its volcanic hazards.  As the Nazca Plate subducts beneath the South American Plate, the melting of the descending plate creates magma chambers that can lead to volcanic eruptions. Chile also experiences volcanic activity associated with intraplate hotspots, where magma rises from deep within the Earth's mantle, leading to volcanic eruptions. 

To address the hazards of earthquakes and volcanic activity in Chile, several key recommendations can be made to enhance mitigation efforts. Continuously updating and enforcing strict building codes and standards that incorporate earthquake-resistant designs. Retrofitting vulnerable structures, such as older buildings, bridges, and critical infrastructure, should be prioritized to withstand seismic forces. Infrastructure planning and development should consider the potential impact of volcanic hazards, including ashfall, and incorporate measures to minimize damage. Investing in advanced earthquake and volcanic monitoring systems to detect and assess hazards accurately. Developing robust early warning systems that can provide timely alerts to the public, emergency responders, and relevant authorities. These systems can provide crucial seconds or minutes for people to seek shelter, evacuate, or take necessary precautions.

As well as incorporating hazard assessments and zoning regulations into land use planning processes. Identifying and restricting development in high-risk areas prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and associated hazards. Preserving natural buffer zones, such as coastal dunes or forests, which can provide protection against some hazards and reduce exposure to risks. This also means improving coordination and readiness among emergency response agencies, including fire departments, police, medical services, and civil protection agencies. Conducting regular training exercises and simulations to test response plans and enhance coordination among different sectors. Establish well-equipped emergency centers and stockpile necessary supplies to facilitate efficient and effective response operations.

The Central-Southern region is highly seismically active due to the interaction between the Nazca Plate and the South American Plate. Cities such as Santiago, Valparaiso, and Concepción are located in this area and are at higher risk of experiencing strong earthquakes. The southern region of Chile, encompassing areas like Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas, is prone to volcanic activity due to the presence of the Andes Mountains. Volcanoes such as Villarrica, Osorno, and Calbuco are located in this region and require specific attention.

If I were to construct a house, there are two regions that would be the safest geographically. The region of Arica and Parinacota in far northern Chile has a lower seismic activity compared to other parts of the country. It is situated away from major fault lines and volcanic zones, reducing the likelihood of significant earthquakes or volcanic hazards. Some interior valleys, such as the Elqui Valley in northern Chile or the Maule Valley in central Chile, are located away from major fault lines and volcanic zones. These areas may offer a lower risk of seismic and volcanic hazards compared to regions directly located along the coast or near active geological features.

REFERENCES:

https://www.psu.edu/news/research/story/study-chilean-quake-shows-potential-future-earthquake/ 

https://geology.com/volcanoes/chaiten/ 

https://inhabitat.com/how-building-codes-saved-lives-during-chiles-earthquake/ 

https://temblor.net/earthquake-insights/strong-shaking-from-a-deep-earthquake-in-central-coastal-chile-what-clues-does-it-reveal-about-failure-of-the-megathrust-8225/ 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128180822000172