A strong earthquake measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale struck the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica early Friday morning.
The USA Geological Survey confirmed the seismic occasion occurred at 8:58 AM native time, simply 219 kilometers south of Ushuaia, Argentina. The shallow earthquake originated at a depth of solely 10 kilometers, considerably growing its potential impression on coastal areas.
Chilean authorities instantly issued tsunami warnings for your complete Magallanes area and Antarctic territories beneath Chilean jurisdiction. Chile’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service projected potential tsunami waves reaching heights between one and three meters.
These waves may impression numerous elements of the shoreline. Authorities ordered evacuation of all seaside areas and coastal zones all through the affected areas as a precautionary measure.
President Gabriel Boric of Chile addressed the state of affairs via social media, urging residents to evacuate coastal areas promptly. “We name for evacuation of the shoreline all through the Magallanes area,” Boric acknowledged whereas activating the nationwide catastrophe response system.
Sirens blared throughout southern Chilean cities as residents calmly evacuated to increased floor. Video footage confirmed orderly motion of individuals from Puerto Williams and different coastal communities following established emergency protocols.
Tsunami Alert Following Earthquake Close to Cape Horn
The US Tsunami Warning System indicated that hazardous waves may have an effect on areas inside 300 kilometers of the epicenter. Officers warned residents that the primary tsunami wave may arrive at Puerto Williams round 18:55 UTC, emphasizing that preliminary waves usually show smaller than subsequent ones.
Maritime visitors and cruise operations close to Cape Horn confronted fast disruption as vessels moved to deeper waters. Tourism operators all through the area canceled excursions and rerouted vacationers away from potential hazard zones.
Argentine authorities suspended aquatic actions within the Beagle Channel for not less than three hours following the earthquake. The southernmost metropolis of Ushuaia skilled robust tremors however reported no vital harm requiring evacuation.
Emergency response groups deployed all through the Magallanes area proceed assessing potential structural impacts. No casualties or main infrastructure harm has been reported up to now, although officers anticipate aftershocks to proceed.
Residents and vacationers within the area ought to stay vigilant and comply with directions from native authorities. The seismic occasion serves as a reminder of South America’s place alongside the Pacific Ring of Fireplace, an space recognized for frequent earthquake exercise.
