A powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage, approximately 218 kilometers south of Puerto Williams, Chile, at a depth of 10 kilometers.
This seismic event, the strongest recorded in the region since 1949, prompted immediate tsunami warnings and widespread evacuations across southern Chile and parts of Argentina.
Immediate Response and Evacuations
In response to the earthquake, Chile’s National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) issued evacuation orders for coastal areas in the Magallanes Region and the Chilean Antarctic Territory. Approximately 1,800 residents from communities including Puerto Williams, Puerto Natales, Porvenir, and Río Verde were evacuated, along with 32 individuals from Antarctic research bases.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a native of Punta Arenas, suspended his agenda to convene an emergency response meeting, emphasizing the mobilization of all state resources.
In Argentina, authorities in the Tierra del Fuego province suspended aquatic activities and navigation in the Beagle Channel as a precautionary measure.
Tsunami Threat and Aftermath
The Chilean Navy’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOA) initially estimated potential tsunami waves between 1 to 3 meters along parts of the Chilean coast. However, subsequent assessments recorded only minor sea level changes, leading to the downgrading of the tsunami alert to a precautionary advisory.
Despite the earthquake’s magnitude, no significant damage or casualties were reported in either Chile or Argentina. The quake was felt in cities such as Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Tolhuin, and Río Grande, with the strongest intensity reported in the commune of Timaukel.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
Authorities continue to monitor the region for aftershocks and potential hazards. The event underscores the importance of preparedness in seismically active areas. Residents and travelers in the affected regions are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety guidelines.
For a visual overview of the event and its impact, you can watch the following news coverage:
