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Evacuation Orders Lifted After Powerful Earthquake Near Southern South America

A 7.4–7.5 magnitude quake in the Drake Passage prompted tsunami warnings and evacuations, but no significant damage or casualties were reported.

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Overview

  • The earthquake struck at 9 AM local time on May 2, with its epicenter 219 km south of Ushuaia in the Drake Passage at a depth of 10 km.
  • Chilean authorities issued tsunami warnings, leading to the evacuation of coastal areas in the Magallanes region and Antarctic research stations.
  • Wave heights of only 20–30 cm above normal were measured, prompting officials to rescind evacuation orders within two hours.
  • President Gabriel Boric urged residents to seek safety via the X platform, showcasing Chile's swift emergency response coordination.
  • No casualties or damage to critical infrastructure were reported, though seismic activity in the region continues to be monitored.