7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Drake Passage; Chile, Argentina Issue Tsunami Alerts
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage near southern Chile and Argentina on Friday, prompting tsunami warnings and mass evacuations across coastal regions.
Authorities in Chile and Argentina issued urgent tsunami alerts after the quake hit around 2 pm local time, with the epicentre located 219 km off the coast of Ushuaia, Argentina. The US Geological Survey confirmed the quake’s depth at 10 km.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced the immediate evacuation of coastal areas across the Magallanes region. “At this time, our duty is to be prepared and heed the authorities,” Boric posted on X. “All state resources are available.”
More than 1,100 people in Puerto Williams were evacuated, with local television showing crowds of residents carrying bags and moving to higher ground. Authorities advised residents to reach altitudes of at least 30 metres for safety.
Chile’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service warned that tsunami waves could reach Antarctica within the hour and might take up to 12 hours to affect distant regions.
Water activities across the southern Chilean coast have been suspended, and emergency systems activated. Though there were no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage, officials remain on high alert as aftershocks were reported in the area.
The quake occurred in the seismically active Drake Passage between Cape Horn and Antarctica. The region is known for tectonic instability, but major quakes remain relatively rare.
The USGS continues to monitor aftershocks and potential ripple effects along the tectonic boundary, while tsunami modeling agencies assess the threat level to other South American and Antarctic coastlines.
As the situation unfolds, national and regional disaster management teams are working to secure affected areas and assist evacuees. No fatalities have been confirmed so far, but emergency response teams remain mobilised.
Residents are urged to follow official advisories and avoid coastal zones until further notice.
