Tsunami Warning Triggers Mass Evacuations in Chile and Argentina

A significant earthquake prompted swift evacuation actions in coastal areas, as authorities prioritize safety during this seismic event.

Coastal regions of Chile and Argentina faced urgent evacuations after authorities issued a tsunami warning in response to a 7.4 magnitude earthquake off Chile's southern coast. The quake hit the Drake Passage between Cape Horn, on South America's southern tip, and Antarctica, at 09:58 local time (12:58 GMT) on Friday.

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter was located approximately 219 km (136 miles) from Ushuaia, Argentina—the world's southernmost city. The warning specifically targeted Chile’s Magallanes region and the Antarctic Territory, while Argentina's Tierra del Fuego region also took precautionary measures. The earthquake struck at a shallow depth of 10 km (6 miles), but officials reported no immediate injuries or damage.

Residents were urged to remain calm and heed the guidance of authorities. Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced on X, "We call for evacuation of the coastline throughout the Magallanes region." Reports indicated that over 1,700 individuals evacuated to safer areas, including 1,000 from Puerto Williams and 500 from Puerto Natales, as per Chile's disaster agency (Senapred).

The evacuation also extended to 32 individuals in Chile's Antarctic research bases, prompting Senapred to issue its highest level of disaster alert to mobilize resources effectively. Videos shared on social media captured the orderly retreat of residents in Puerto Williams, highlighting community responsiveness, including scenes of police assisting individuals in wheelchairs toward safety.

In Argentina, the effects of the quake were notably felt in Ushuaia, although reports indicated that other nearby towns experienced lesser impacts. Local media shared that around 2,000 people were successfully evacuated away from the Argentine coastline. Renowned for its seismic activity, Chile is home to three tectonic plates converging, making it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes.