Fri May 02 14:13:12 UTC 2025: ## 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Chile and Argentina, Prompting Evacuations

**Santiago, Chile/Ushuaia, Argentina (May 2, 2025)** – A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage, between Cape Horn and Antarctica, on Friday, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuations along the coastlines of southern Chile and Argentina. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) located the quake’s epicenter approximately 219 km south of Ushuaia, Argentina, at a relatively shallow depth of 10 km.

Chilean authorities issued an immediate evacuation order for the entire coastal region of the Strait of Magellan in the Magallanes region, urging residents to move to higher ground. President Gabriel Boric assured the public that all resources were available to handle potential emergencies. In Punta Arenas, residents calmly evacuated, carrying belongings to designated shelters, as shown in local television broadcasts.

While no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage emerged, the Chilean Navy’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOA) warned of potential tsunami waves reaching Antarctica within an hour and more distant locations within 12 hours. The alert also extended to Chilean Antarctic territory.

In Argentina, authorities in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, suspended all water activities and navigation in the Beagle Channel as a precautionary measure. While the earthquake was felt strongly in Ushuaia and surrounding towns, no evacuations or major damage were reported. Local officials urged calm amidst the event. The situation remains under close monitoring.

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