7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Chile, Argentina; Evacuations Initiated
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina, causing evacuations but no reported damage or casualties. The quake’s epicenter was 219 kilometers south of Ushuaia. Chilean authorities issued tsunami alerts and mandated evacuations along coastal areas in the Magallanes region, while local reactions were calm amid preparations for potential emergencies.
A significant earthquake, registering a magnitude of 7.4, struck off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina on Friday. This seismic event triggered evacuations along the Chilean coastline in the Magallanes region and led to the suspension of water activities and navigation in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province. Fortunately, initial reports indicated no damage or casualties.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake’s epicenter was located underwater, approximately 219 kilometers (173 miles) south of Ushuaia, Argentina. In response to the event, local Chilean authorities issued an evacuation alert for all coastal areas along the Strait of Magellan, situated in the southernmost parts of the country.
Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response announced a tsunami alert, mandating the evacuation of coastal sections in the Magallanes region. They also urged individuals to leave all beach areas within the Chilean Antarctic territory. Chilean President Gabriel Boric communicated via social media that “all resources are available” in case of emergencies, stressing the necessity for preparedness and adherence to official instructions.
In Punta Arenas, a city in Chilean Patagonia adjacent to the Strait of Magellan, local television footage portrayed a calm but swift evacuation, with residents actively seeking shelter. Many were seen carrying bags as they exited their homes. Roberto Ramírez, sharing his experience with a news channel, noted, “We received the alert and we had to evacuate at work, but people are calm and well prepared. “, highlighting the composed response from the community.
The Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy indicated that the resultant waves could potentially reach Antarctica within an hour and warned that it could take up to 12 hours for the tsunami effects to reach more distant regions. Meanwhile, in Ushuaia, which holds the title of the world’s southernmost city, local authorities acted promptly by suspending all forms of water activities and navigation in the Beagle Channel for at least three hours.
The local government stated, “The earthquake was felt primarily in the city of Ushuaia and, to a lesser extent, in towns across the province.” Nonetheless, they emphasized the importance of remaining calm during such instances, underscoring the significance of community resilience.
In summary, the recent 7.4 magnitude earthquake off the coasts of Chile and Argentina caused evacuations in both nations but, thankfully, no reported damage or injuries at this time. Authorities in both countries responded swiftly, issuing alerts and advising citizens to remain calm. The situation remains monitored closely as preventative measures continue to be enforced, particularly in vulnerable coastal regions.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
