Powerful Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warnings, Evacuations in Southern Chile and Argentina
A significant undersea earthquake measuring 7.4 magnitude struck the Drake Passage region near the southern tips of Chile and Argentina on Friday afternoon, May 2nd, prompting authorities in both nations to issue tsunami warnings and order coastal evacuations. The powerful tremor occurred approximately 219 kilometres off the coast of Ushuaia, Argentina, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).
Seismic Event Details
The earthquake originated at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres around 2:00 PM local time. Its location in the Drake Passage places it near the border region between Chile and Argentina. Following the quake, which was also accompanied by aftershocks reported by the USGS, immediate tsunami warnings were activated. Chilean President Gabriel Boric issued a public call via social media urging the evacuation of the entire coastline of the Magallanes region. Authorities advised residents in threatened coastal zones of both countries to move to higher ground, specifically recommending locations above 30 metres in elevation. Water activities in the Magallanes region were also suspended as a precaution.
Potential Impact
While there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage, precautionary evacuations commenced swiftly. Notably, over 1,100 people in the Chilean town of Puerto Williams were reported to have moved to safer locations. The Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy estimated that potential tsunami waves could reach Antarctica within approximately an hour of the quake and might take up to 12 hours to impact more distant areas.
The 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Drake Passage has placed coastal communities in southern Chile and Argentina on high alert due to the subsequent tsunami warnings. Authorities are actively managing evacuations and monitoring the situation closely as potential waves propagate across the region. This event highlights the seismic activity prevalent in the area and the importance of rapid response protocols.
