Iquique earthquake and tsunami strikes the Pacific coast

Background. The 1877 Iquique earthquake occurred at 21:16 local time on 9 May. Estimates of its magnitude vary, with some sources citing at least 8.5 Ms, while others suggest as high as 8.9 Mw or 9.0 Mt based on tsunami size. The event is recognized as one of the major seismic gaps on the plate boundary, known as the Northern Chile Seismic Gap.

Impact. Extensive damage occurred in Antofagasta following the 1877 earthquake and tsunami. Municipal authorities there voted for a tax of 10 centavos per quintal (approximately 46 kg or 101 lb) of nitrates exported to fund reconstruction of the town. The city of Iquique has been devastated by several earthquakes, including the 1877 event. In 2005, a recurrence period of 135 years was estimated for great earthquakes along this part of the plate boundary, suggesting that a similar earthquake to the 1877 event was likely in the early 21st century.