Chile and Argentina Respond to Tsunami Threat Following 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina, triggering tsunami warnings and mass evacuations in the region. The quake, which hit the Drake Passage near Cape Horn and Antarctica, prompted Chilean authorities to issue a “red alert” before downgrading it as the immediate threat subsided.
Key Details of the Earthquake
-
Magnitude: 7.4 (US Geological Survey)
-
Depth: 10 km (6.2 miles) – considered shallow and potentially more destructive
-
Epicenter: 219 km (136 miles) from Ushuaia, Argentina—the world’s southernmost city
-
Time: 09:58 local time (12:58 GMT)
Evacuations and Tsunami Warnings
Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Senapred) initially ordered evacuations in the Magallanes region and Chilean Antarctic Territory. Over 1,700 people were moved to higher ground, including:
-
1,000 from Puerto Williams
-
500 from Puerto Natales
-
32 from Antarctic research bases
Authorities in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego also suspended water activities in the Beagle Channel and evacuated around 2,000 people as a precaution.
Government Response
Chilean President Gabriel Boric urged residents to follow evacuation orders, stating:
“At this time, our duty is to be prepared and heed the authorities.”
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Álvaro Elizalde advised people to avoid coastal areas despite the downgraded alert.
No Major Damage Reported
So far, there have been no reports of injuries or significant damage, thanks to swift emergency protocols. Social media footage showed calm evacuations, with police assisting vulnerable residents, including a person in a wheelchair.
Why This Region Is Prone to Earthquakes
Chile sits at the convergence of three tectonic plates, making it one of the most seismically active countries. The 1960 Valdivia earthquake (9.5 magnitude) remains the strongest ever recorded.
What’s Next?
-
Tsunami waves may still reach Antarctic bases and southern Chile.
-
Residents should stay alert for further updates.
Stay informed with official sources as the situation develops.