2010 Maule Earthquake

The 2010 Maule Earthquake was a powerful magnitude 8.8 earthquake that struck central Chile on February 27, 2010. It was caused by the sudden release of energy along the boundary where the Nazca and South American tectonic plates meet, a process known as subduction. The quake lasted about three minutes and generated a massive tsunami that affected coastal areas. It resulted in over 500 deaths, widespread damage, and significant destruction to infrastructure. The event was notable for its strength, the extensive response efforts, and its contribution to understanding earthquake risks and plate movements in the region.