Tsunami Warning Issued in Southern Chile After 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake
Chilean authorities have declared a tsunami alert and ordered coastal evacuations in the southern Magallanes region following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake. The quake struck the Drake Passage, between Cape Horn and Antarctica, at a shallow depth of 10 km, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Key Points:
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Evacuations Underway – Chile’s disaster response agency, SENAPRED, issued a red alert for parts of Magallanes and Antarctic territories, urging residents to move to higher ground. President Gabriel Boric reinforced the call, emphasizing preparedness.
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No Major Damage Reported Yet – Emergency teams are assessing infrastructure, but no casualties or significant destruction have been confirmed.
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Tsunami Waves Expected – Chile’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOA) warned that waves could reach Antarctic bases and southern coastal cities in the coming hours.
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Argentina Takes Precautions – In Ushuaia, Argentina’s southernmost city, maritime activities in the Beagle Channel were suspended for at least three hours as a precaution.
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Aftershocks Possible – Authorities in both countries are monitoring the situation, with further seismic activity still a concern.
Conclusion:
While the earthquake has not yet caused major damage, the tsunami threat has prompted swift evacuations and emergency measures. The region’s remote nature may limit immediate impact assessments, but precautionary actions remain critical as authorities continue vigilance against potential aftershocks and rising sea levels. Residents are advised to follow official updates and safety directives.
