7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Off Coasts of Chile and Argentina…

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coasts of Chile and Argentina on Friday. Evacuations were ordered in Chile’s Magallanes region, and water activities were halted in Argentina. Fortunately, no damage or casualties were reported. Authorities acted swiftly to ensure public safety, with a focus on potential tsunami threats to coastal areas.

A strong earthquake measuring 7.4 in magnitude jolted the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina on Friday. The United States Geological Survey reported that the quake’s epicenter was located under the ocean, approximately 219 kilometers (173 miles) south of Ushuaia, Argentina. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that there were no damages or casualties following this seismic event.

In response to the earthquake, the Chilean authorities quickly enacted an evacuation alert for the coastal areas of the Magallanes region. The National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response in Chile issued a message instructing evacuations due to a tsunami alert, stressing the need for residents to move to safer zones. Areas along the Chilean Antarctic territory also faced mandatory evacuations as a precaution.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric took to X, emphasizing the preparedness of the government, stating, “all resources are available” for handling any emergencies. He urged citizens to heed the evacuation orders across the coastline of the Magallanes region, highlighting the necessity of being prepared in this situation.

Residents in Punta Arenas, a city in Patagonia located on the Strait of Magellan, quickly flocked to shelters as images aired on local news showed streets filled with people carrying their belongings. The evacuation was reported to be orderly, with little panic in response to the alerts. “We received the alert and we had to evacuate at work, but people are calm and well prepared,” shared Roberto Ramírez with a local channel.

The Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy (SHOA) noted that tsunami waves could reach Antarctic shores within an hour of the quake, while it might take up to 12 hours for them to affect more distant regions. Meanwhile, in Ushuaia, which is known as the southernmost city in the world, local authorities suspended all water-related activities and navigation in the Beagle Channel for at least three hours to ensure public safety.

As the earthquake’s effects were felt mostly in Ushuaia, officials reassured citizens to remain calm and vigilant. “In the face of these types of events, it is important to remain calm,” stated local government representatives.

Débora Rey contributed to this report from Buenos Aires. For more Latin America news, visit https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america.

In summary, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off Chile and Argentina, leading to evacuation alerts in the Magallanes region of Chile and suspension of water activities in Argentina. Thankfully, no immediate damage or casualties have been reported. Authorities highlighted the calm evacuation process and readiness to respond to potential threats, such as tsunamis, urging citizens to stay alert and prepared. Overall, this event has been handled effectively, demonstrating the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com