A powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.5 on the Richter scale shook the extreme south of Chile on the morning of May 2, 2025, specifically in the Region of Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, triggering a tsunami warning for the entire coastline, including the cities of Punta Arenas, Puerto Williams and areas of the Antarctic Territory.
According to the National Seismological Center (CSN), the telluric movement occurred at 08:58 local time (12:58 GMT), with an epicenter located 218.1 km south of Puerto Williams, at a depth of 10 km. Just minutes later, at 09:07, a significant aftershock of magnitude 6.1 was recorded in the same area, near Cape Horn.
Tsunami warning and evacuation
The Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy (SHOA) immediately activated a tsunami warning for the region.
In response, the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (Senapred) ordered the evacuation of the coastline, both on the continent and at Antarctic bases.
Tsunami warning for the entire coastline
National Seismological Center
President Gabriel Boric, originally from Punta Arenas, cancelled his public agenda and went to La Moneda Palace to personally coordinate the emergency.
At the same time, the Committee for Disaster Risk Management (Cogrid) was convened at the regional and national levels.
“We call for the evacuation of the coastal edge throughout the Magallanes Region.”
“Our duty is to prevent and follow the indications of the authorities,” Boric expressed through social networks.
Current situation and recommendations
So far, no casualties or major structural damage have been reported following the earthquake in Chile.
However, the authorities maintain constant vigilance due to the risk of abnormal variations in sea level.
Particularly in areas near Puerto Williams and Punta Arenas.
Senapred reminds the population that it is essential to remain calm, follow official information channels and evacuate to safe areas without using vehicles, unless otherwise indicated.
Please avoid returning to evacuated areas until further notice.
The earthquake, although it occurred in a region of low population density in Chile, highlights the country’s seismic vulnerability.
As well as the need to maintain updated emergency protocols, especially for those who live in or visit the extreme south of Chile.
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