A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck Chile on December 18, 2024, at 56 km ESE of Molina, with a depth of 109 km at coordinates (-35.3392, -70.7315). The seismic event has left a trail of destruction, impacting infrastructure and posing significant humanitarian challenges.
Extensive Damage to Infrastructure
The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure across central Chile. In Molina, the closest city to the epicenter, several buildings collapsed, and power lines were severed, disrupting essential services. The quake also affected nearby towns, with reports of damaged bridges and roads 1.
Emergency Response Efforts
Emergency response teams quickly mobilized to assess the damage and provide aid. Chilean authorities have set up relief centers to assist those affected, while rescue teams are working to locate and rescue anyone trapped under debris. The initial response has been hampered by the remote location of some affected areas and the severity of the damage 1.
Humanitarian Challenges
The earthquake has left many residents without access to basic necessities like clean water and electricity. In Molina, water supply lines were ruptured, and electrical services were disrupted, forcing residents to rely on emergency generators and bottled water. The lack of communication infrastructure has also hindered relief efforts, with many areas experiencing disrupted phone and internet services 1.
Coordination with International Agencies
Chilean authorities are working closely with international agencies to coordinate relief efforts. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has expressed solidarity with the people of Chile and is committed to supporting immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. The UNDP is also collaborating with local authorities to ensure a coordinated response to rebuild lives, infrastructure, and resilience 2.
Private Sector Involvement
The Vanuatu Business Resilience Council (VBRC), a member of the OCHA-UNDP Connecting Business Initiative, has taken a similar leading role in coordinating the private sector’s response to the earthquake. VBRC works closely with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to streamline emergency response activities and assess the earthquake’s impact on businesses and the broader community. This collaboration aims to restore communications, ensure supply chain continuity, and provide critical services 3.
Initial Assessments and Future Outlook
Initial assessments suggest that around 10,000 people may be impacted, with at least five fatalities reported alongside numerous injuries. The structural integrity of buildings, including critical infrastructure like hospitals, has been compromised, forcing emergency medical teams to set up triage tents to manage the influx of patients. As relief efforts continue, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and challenging. The resilience of the Chilean people and the coordinated efforts of local and international agencies will be crucial in addressing the humanitarian challenges posed by this powerful earthquake.