Dramatic coastal scene at the southern tip of South America near Cape Horn: choppy gray-blue seas under overcast skies, rugged cliffs and icy mountains in the distance. Emergency sirens and digital warning boards signal a tsunami alert as calm crowds in warm jackets evacuate orderly from small coastal towns like Punta Arenas and Puerto Williams. Antarctic research station structures and flags visible on a shoreline, patrol vehicles and rescue boats on standby, docks closed with signs indicating suspended water activities. Subtle tremor ripples on the water, seagulls circling, no visible damage, overall tense yet orderly atmosphere with cold, windswept lighting.
Summary
A 7.4-magnitude earthquake in the Drake Passage near Cape Horn prompted tsunami warnings and precautionary coastal evacuations across Chile’s Magallanes region, the Chilean Antarctic Territory, and Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego. Thousands evacuated calmly from communities including Puerto Williams, Puerto Natales, and Punta Arenas, as well as Antarctic research bases, while Ushuaia suspended water activities. Authorities initially projected modest tsunami waves, mobilized emergency resources, and advised shoreline caution amid a series of aftershocks before later canceling the warning. No injuries or significant damage were reported.
Key Points
- 7.4-magnitude quake struck the Drake Passage near Cape Horn
- Tsunami warnings led to evacuations in Chilean and Argentine coastal areas and Antarctic bases
- Aftershocks followed; authorities advised continued shoreline caution
- Warnings were later canceled with no reported injuries or damage
- Emergency resources were mobilized and water activities suspended in affected areas