A powerful offshore earthquake has triggered a tsunami warning in southern Chile, prompting urgent evacuation orders for coastal communities in the Magallanes region.
Authorities are asking residents to move to higher ground as a precaution.
The earthquake struck at 1:58 p.m. local time on Friday, measuring 7.4 in magnitude. Its epicenter was located 219 kilometers off the coast near Ushuaia, a city in Argentina close to Chile’s southern tip. The United States Geological Survey confirmed the strength and location of the quake. Several aftershocks have since been detected in the region.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced the evacuation order via social media, urging people in the Magallanes coastal zone to leave immediately and seek safety. The national emergency office instructed residents to stay calm and follow directions from local emergency teams.
Local reports say the evacuation is being carried out as a safety measure. People in the affected areas are being asked to head toward zones at least 30 meters above sea level to reduce the risk from possible tsunami waves.
Authorities have not reported any casualties or significant damage at this time, but the situation is being closely monitored. Emergency response teams are on alert, and the public is being asked to stay tuned to official channels for updates.
Chile, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly prone to seismic activity and has well-developed earthquake response systems. Previous large earthquakes in the region have caused tsunamis, which is why officials are acting swiftly to prevent loss of life.
More information is expected as monitoring continues and authorities assess the threat from potential waves along the coast.