Chile Issues Tsunami Warning and Evacuates Southern Coastal Areas Following Major Earthquake
Chile has issued a tsunami warning and ordered the evacuation of southern coastal areas after a powerful earthquake struck off the coast of neighboring Argentina on Friday.
The warning applies specifically to the remote Magallanes region, located at the southern tip of the country, as well as portions of the Chilean Antarctic Territory. The Chilean disaster response agency, Senapred, reported that more than 1,700 people have already been evacuated to higher ground, including approximately 1,000 residents from Puerto Williams and 500 from Puerto Natales. An additional 32 individuals at Antarctic research bases have also relocated as a precaution.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.4, with its epicenter located 219 kilometers (136 miles) off the coast of Ushuaia, Argentina, in the Drake Passage, at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles). The tremor was felt in Ushuaia and surrounding areas, with aftershocks reported throughout the region, according to local media.
In a post on X, Chilean President Gabriel Boric urged residents to evacuate coastal areas throughout Magallanes. Senapred has issued its highest-level disaster alert, which enables the full mobilization of emergency resources and personnel. The agency has called on the public to remain calm and adhere to instructions from authorities.
Footage circulating on social media — not yet independently verified — shows residents in Puerto Williams moving in an orderly manner to higher ground, accompanied by emergency sirens. Local reports emphasize the evacuation is a precautionary measure, with safe zones identified at elevations of at least 30 meters above sea level.
Miguel Ortiz, Senapred’s deputy director of emergency management, emphasized that individuals should remain within designated safety areas until further notice.
In Argentina, the governor’s office for the affected region confirmed that the earthquake was felt most strongly in Ushuaia, with minor tremors reaching other towns. No injuries or material damage have been reported at this time.
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