7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Southern Chile and Argentina, Tsunami Alert Issued

Ushuaia, Argentina – A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina on May 2, 2025, prompting a tsunami alert shortly after. The quake occurred at 9:58 AM local time (12:58 GMT) at a depth of 10 kilometers in the Drake Passage, approximately 219 kilometers south of Ushuaia, Argentina, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

In the aftermath of the earthquake, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center issued an alert, warning of “hazardous” tsunami waves that could affect coastlines within 300 kilometers of the epicenter. The warning specifically mentioned potential impact to the coast of Chile, with waves expected to reach Puerto Williams around 18:55 GMT (14:55 PM local time).

Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED) responded by issuing evacuation orders for coastal areas in the Magallanes region. The agency stated, “Evacuation to a safe zone is being ordered for the coastal sectors of the Magallanes region.”

Chilean President Gabriel Boric confirmed the evacuation order, urging residents to heed authorities. He stated, “We are calling for the evacuation of the coastline throughout the Magallanes region. Right now, our duty is to be prepared and heed the authorities.”

In Argentina, the city of Ushuaia, known as the southernmost city in the world, experienced the tremor but reported no significant damage. Local authorities noted, “The earthquake was felt primarily in the city of Ushuaia and, to a lesser extent, in towns across the province.”

The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, but officials confirmed that so far, there have been no reports of injuries or infrastructural damage related to the quake. Residents were advised to navigate to higher ground as a precaution against the tsunami warning.

Chile, often susceptible to seismic activity, is located where three tectonic plates converge: the Nazca, the South American, and the Antarctic plates. This makes the region prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

As officials continue to monitor the situation, they encourage residents in the affected areas to stay informed and heed evacuation orders.