Deep 6.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Santiago del Estero

A major earthquake of 6.1 magnitude struck 69 miles east southeast of Santiago del Estero, at a depth of 340 miles, the US Geological Survey said.

The quake occurred at 4:46 am (2:46 am. EST) today. A quake of that magnitude nearer the earth's surface could cause severe damage in a densely populated area.