7.5-Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warnings in Chile and Antarctica
A strong 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck off southern Argentina early today, prompting tsunami alerts across southern Chile and parts of Antarctica. The quake hit about 200 km south of Puerto Williams at a shallow depth of 10 km, followed by several aftershocks.
Officials warn tsunami waves up to 9 feet could impact Chile’s Magallanes Region, while Antarctica may face waves up to 3 feet. Evacuations are underway along Chile’s southern coast, with residents urgently fleeing towns like Punta Arenas. Authorities stressed the need to include pets in evacuation plans.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric assured the public that all state resources are mobilized to handle the emergency.
The Magallanes Region is sparsely populated but highly exposed due to its closeness to the epicenter. Chile’s location on a major tectonic fault makes it prone to powerful earthquakes, recalling the historic 1960 Valdivia quake—the strongest ever recorded.
