Saturday, March 29, 2025
May 2, 2025 — South America:
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit off the southern coastlines of Chile and Argentina on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicentre was located 219 kilometers south of Ushuaia, a city in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province.
In response, Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response issued an urgent tsunami alert, ordering the evacuation of all coastal areas in the Magallanes region, which borders the Strait of Magellan. Residents were directed to move to safe zones immediately.
Authorities also instructed people to vacate all beaches in the Chilean Antarctic Territory as a precautionary measure. Simultaneously, Argentina suspended all water-based activities and navigation in the Tierra del Fuego Province.
As of now, no injuries or structural damages have been reported. Emergency services are on high alert, and monitoring continues for potential aftershocks or tsunami waves.
This earthquake is one of the strongest to strike the region in recent years, raising renewed concerns over the seismic vulnerability of South America’s southern tip.
Both Chile and Argentina are known for their rigorous disaster preparedness. Authorities are urging citizens to stay informed through official channels and follow emergency protocols strictly.
Further assessments and updates are expected as data becomes available and the situation unfolds.
