• A 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Drake Passage triggered tsunami warnings in Chile and Argentina, leading to coastal evacuations.
• A small tsunami wave was observed at the Vernadsky Research Base in Antarctica; waves of 3-10 feet were initially predicted along Chile's coast.
• The tsunami warning was later canceled after authorities assessed the threat had passed; no injuries or major damage were reported.

A significant earthquake, measuring 7.4 in magnitude, occurred in the Drake Passage, a region known for rough seas between Cape Horn and Antarctica. This prompted immediate tsunami warnings for coastal areas of Chile and Argentina. Authorities initiated evacuation procedures, moving thousands of residents to higher ground as a precautionary measure. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially predicted potential tsunami waves along the Chilean coast but later canceled the alert after observing only a small wave in Antarctica and reassessing the overall threat.

• What: A 7.4 magnitude earthquake triggered tsunami warnings and coastal evacuations in Chile and Argentina.
• Who: Residents of coastal Chile and Argentina, Chilean President Gabriel Boric, Chile's disaster agency (Senapred), U.S. Geological Survey, NOAA's Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
• When: The earthquake struck on Friday at 09:58 local time (12:58 GMT). Tsunami alert canceled around noon ET.
• Where: Drake Passage between Cape Horn and Antarctica. Affected areas included Chile's Magallanes region, Chilean Antarctic Territory, and Argentina's Tierra del Fuego region.

The earthquake in the Drake Passage highlights the seismic activity in the region due to the convergence of tectonic plates. The swift response by Chilean and Argentinian authorities, including immediate evacuation orders, demonstrates preparedness for such events. The initial tsunami warning and subsequent cancellation reflect the dynamic nature of assessing tsunami threats and the importance of real-time monitoring. The relatively small tsunami wave observed suggests the earthquake's energy was largely dissipated offshore. The event underscores the vulnerability of coastal communities to seismic activity and the need for continued investment in early warning systems and disaster preparedness.

We call for evacuation of the coastline throughout the Magallanes region.

The 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Drake Passage led to prompt tsunami warnings and evacuations in Chile and Argentina. While a minor tsunami wave was recorded, the overall threat subsided, and the alert was canceled. No significant damage or injuries were reported, indicating the effectiveness of the early warning and evacuation procedures. The event serves as a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region and the importance of maintaining vigilance and preparedness.