7.4 magnitude quake off Chile’s far south briefly triggers tsunami alert

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Chile and Argentina early Friday, prompting tsunami fears and the evacuation of thousands from Chile’s southern coast and Antarctic bases.

No damage or casualties were reported.

Authorities later lifted the tsunami warning, though they urged continued caution.

The quake triggered over a dozen aftershocks and briefly disrupted daily life in coastal areas, including school closures and emergency evacuations.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric, from the affected region, called an emergency meeting and emphasized safety, the Associated Press has reported.

Chile remains one of the world’s most earthquake-prepared nations.

Written by B.C. Begley