Tsunami warning after 7.4 magnitude earthquake hits Chile and Argentina

Notable quake, preliminary info: M 7.4 – 219 km S of Ushuaia, Argentina https://t.co/QzqRooM4PK

— USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) May 2, 2025

Following the quake, the US Tsunami Warning Centers issued an alert warning of the risk of “hazardous” tsunami waves. The advisory noted that tsunami waves could impact coastlines within 300 kilometres of the epicentre.

In particular, the coast of Chile has been placed on alert. Waves could reach Puerto Williams, Chile, at approximately 18:55 GMT (14:55 pm local time), the warning said.

People evacuate the coastline in Chile, following a tsunami preventive advisory generated by local authorities, after an earthquake sparked a tsunami threat on the Pacific coast, in Punta Arenas, Chile, May 2, 2025. REUTERS/Rodrigo Maturana

Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (SENAPRED) issued an evacuation order for the coastal sectors of the Magallanes region, citing the tsunami alert. “Evacuation to a safe zone is being ordered for the coastal sectors of the Magallanes region,” the agency said in a message sent to the public. It also urged the abandonment of beach areas in the Chilean Antarctic territory.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric confirmed the evacuation order, stating, “We are calling for the evacuation of the coastline throughout the Magallanes region. Right now, our duty is to be prepared and heed the authorities.” He added on social media that “all resources are available” to respond to potential emergencies.

Llamamos a evacuar borde costero en toda región de Magallanes. En estos momentos nuestro deber es prevenir y hacer caso a autoridades. COGRID regional y nacional están comenzando. Todos los recursos del Estado están a disposición. https://t.co/2qAA3TGEcN

— Gabriel Boric Font (@GabrielBoric) May 2, 2025

In neighbouring Argentina, the city of Ushuaia — the world’s southernmost — felt the tremor but reported no significant damage. “The earthquake was felt primarily in the city of Ushuaia and, to a lesser extent, in towns across the province,” the local government said, according to the Associated Press. “In the face of these types of events, it is important to remain calm.”