Major Earthquake Shakes South America, Tsunami Concerns Arise

A powerful earthquake, registering a magnitude of 8.0, struck South America in the early hours of Friday, with its epicenter located in the Drake Passage, the waterway separating the southern tip of the continent from Antarctica, according to News18.com. Some unverified reports suggested the quake’s magnitude reached 8.2, though official confirmation was still pending at the time of reporting.

The seismic event occurred at 2:16 UTC, impacting the southern regions of South America. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has yet to provide further details on the precise magnitude or potential aftershocks. Authorities in the affected areas have been closely monitoring the situation, as the region remains vulnerable to additional tremors.

No immediate reports of injuries or structural damage have surfaced, but the quake’s intensity has raised concerns about its potential impact. The Drake Passage, situated between South America and Antarctica, is a remote and volatile region, making precise assessments challenging in the immediate aftermath.

A tsunami alert was issued for coastal areas within 300 kilometers of the epicenter, including parts of southern Argentina and Chile, as a precautionary measure. The U.S. Tsunami Warning System warned of possible hazardous waves, prompting local authorities to urge residents to evacuate coastal zones and seek higher ground. Although no significant tsunami activity has been confirmed, the alert underscores the region’s vulnerability to seismic events, given its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Emergency response teams are on standby, and officials continue to evaluate the situation for any structural damage or disruptions. The absence of reported casualties or major destruction is encouraging, but vigilance remains high as aftershocks are expected.