Major Earthquake Hits Near Chile’s Antarctic Region, Prompting Tsunami Alerts
A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage near Chile’s Antarctic territory on August 22, 2025, leading to minor tsunami warnings and precautionary measures, reports 24brussels.
The quake occurred at 22:16 local time (02:16 GMT Friday) with two subsequent aftershocks registering 5.1 and 5.0 magnitudes. All three quakes were recorded at depths of around 10 kilometers in the waters between Antarctica and Cape Horn.
Chile’s National Seismological Center identified the epicenter approximately 258 kilometers northwest of the Chilean Antarctic Base Frei, initially reporting the main quake at a 7.6 magnitude. An alert was issued via the Center’s social media account, highlighting the event’s potential impact on the region.
In response, the Chilean Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOA) issued a minor tsunami warning for the Antarctic coastline, placing the area under a precautionary state. Waves are expected to impact the Prat and O’Higgins bases.
The National Office for Emergency Prevention and Response (Senapred) urged personnel and residents to evacuate beaches, rocky shores, wetlands, estuaries, river mouths, coastal pathways, marinas, and ports within the Chilean Antarctic territory to ensure safety.
Authorities are actively monitoring the situation for further seismic activity and potential tsunami threats, reinforcing safety protocols for personnel stationed at Antarctic bases.
As the region braces for potential aftereffects, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those in proximity to the epicenter while assessing the ongoing seismic landscape.
