The port city of Antofagasta, Chile - Earth.com

The port city of Antofagasta, Chile

12-30-2021

The port city of Antofagasta, Chile Today’s Video of the Day from the European Space Agency features the port city of Antofagasta, Chile, which is located about 1,000 kilometers north of Santiago. Antofagasta is positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the mountains to the east. 

The city has approximately 22 kilometers of coastline, but also lies within the Atacama Desert – one of the driest places on Earth. The region has a cold desert climate with abundant sunshine, and January is the warmest month.

Since the mid-19th century, copper mining is by far the most important mining activity for Antofagasta. Silver and saltpeter mining have been historically important for Antofagasta. Suddenly rising out of the desolate northern desert  The city is known for its iconic monument. The city of Antofagasta is closely linked to mining activity, being a port and the chief service hub for one of Chile’s major mining areas. 

The town of Antofagasta has a cold desert climate with abundant sunshine and strong maritime influence.

The marked aridity and water scarcity are regulated by the Humboldt Current, addition to the high humidity and morning fog known as “Camanchaca”. Furthermore, the Pacific anticyclone generates winds from the south and southwest.

Video Credit: ESA

By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer

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