The earthquake was caused by increased regional stress arising from an earthquake on 27 February , centered offshore Maule Region , which was felt throughout central Chile . The 11 March earthquake was at first thought to be an aftershock from the 27 February event , but University of Chile seismologist Jaime Campos identified it as an independent earthquake . The Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center pointed out the possibility of local tsunamis within of the epicentre , although small , but violent waves were seen in the Pichilemu and Bucalemu area . One person was reported dead . At least eleven aftershocks immediately followed , causing panic throughout coastal towns between the Coquimbo and Los Lagos regions
earthquake on 27 February
2010 Chile earthquake
2010 Pichilemu earthquake