A strong 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit Chile’s far south on Monday, setting off a tsunami warning and ordering evacuations of coastal communities along the entire Magallanes region. President Gabriel Boric ordered rapid and organized action as emergency procedures were set in motion across the country.
The earthquake, which occurred off a shallow location, triggered major tremors in the remote southern end of the nation. Although no direct damage or injury was reported, people were advised to evacuate to higher ground amid the possibility of deadly waves.
Chile’s National Emergency Office (ONEMI) and the Navy Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service confirmed the tsunami warning, advising that waves could hit the coast within hours. Sirens were activated in a number of towns, and emergency teams were sent out to help with evacuations.
Chile, on the unstable Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is not new to earthquakes. The most recent earthquake is a harsh reminder of the vulnerability of the area and the vital role of quick disaster response in limiting human loss and disruption.
