Chilean Coast Evacuated Due to Tsunami Threat After 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake
On Friday, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit off the Chilean coast in the Drake Passage, located between Cape Horn and Antarctica, at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers (6 miles). This seismic event prompted local authorities to issue tsunami warnings, leading to an evacuation of coastal areas.
Chile’s disaster management agency, SENAPRED, reported that while there was no immediate damage to essential infrastructure or injuries, they advised evacuations along the southern coastline as a precaution against potential tsunami waves.
President Gabriel Boric urged the evacuation of the entire Magallanes region, stating that all state resources would be utilized to address any possible aftermath.
Later, during a press conference, Interior Minister Alvaro Elizalde announced that the evacuation alert for the area was being downgraded. However, he advised citizens to remain clear of beaches and coastal regions for safety.
Alicia Cebrian, SENAPRED’s director, indicated that a minor "instrumental tsunami" was recorded at the Prat Base in Antarctica, showing a rise of 6 centimeters (about 2.3 inches) in sea levels, with possible increases of up to 90 centimeters expected.
Social media videos captured moments of calm evacuation, showcasing citizens leaving the beach as sirens sounded in the background. Photos featured parks and other designated evacuation areas filled with students, workers, and residents from the sparsely populated southern region of Chile.
According to Chile’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service, the tsunami waves were predicted to first impact Antarctica, followed by cities in the southern parts of Chile in the hours to come.
In a further precautionary measure, Chile’s Antarctic Institute confirmed that evacuations were underway at their bases. Prior to the alert being downgraded, local officials indicated that around 2,000 individuals had been evacuated from the region.
