Major Quake, Tsunami Waves Hit Southern Cone

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude between 7.4 and 7.7 struck the Drake Passage off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina, with the epicenter about 219 kilometers south of Ushuaia, Argentina, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The quake prompted tsunami alerts and widespread evacuations in the Magallanes region and Chilean Antarctic territories. Chilean authorities, including President Gabriel Boric, ordered evacuations of coastal areas and Antarctic bases, resulting in approximately 2,000 people being evacuated. The Chilean disaster agency SENAPRED and NOAA warned of possible tsunami waves up to 3 meters high, and initial waves have already reached the Antarctic Peninsula. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage. Residents have been urged to remain calm and follow official instructions as the situation continues to evolve.