12Santiago, Chile
Chile is one of the most earthquake-prone countries on Earth because the Nazca Plate is being forced beneath the South American Plate along the country’s Pacific coast.
Santiago, Chile’s capital and one of South America’s most popular city-break destinations, deserves a place on any earthquake-risk list.
Chile has experienced some of the largest earthquakes ever scientifically recorded, including the magnitude 9.5 Valdivia earthquake of 1960.
The magnitude 8.8 Maule earthquake in 2010 also caused powerful shaking in Santiago and extensive damage elsewhere in central Chile.
Chile has responded with strong seismic construction standards, and many modern buildings are designed to move considerably during an earthquake without collapsing.
Traveller tip: If you are staying in a high-rise hotel, do not attempt to use the elevator immediately after a strong earthquake. Expect aftershocks and follow official instructions.
