Chile has activated a tsunami alert and urged coastal residents to evacuate after a powerful earthquake struck off its southern coast. The warning affects the isolated Magallanes region in the southernmost part of the country, following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake detected 219 kilometers (136 miles) from Ushuaia, Argentina, at 13:58 local time, as reported by the United States Geological Survey.
In response to the seismic event, aftershocks have been felt in the vicinity. Chile's President Gabriel Boric took to X, calling for an immediate evacuation of all coastal areas within the Magallanes region.
Officials from the Chilean disaster agency are advising citizens to "remain calm" and adhere to the guidance provided by emergency response teams. Local media suggests that the evacuation protocol is a precautionary measure, instructing residents to move to safe zones located at least 30 meters above sea level.
The situation is developing, and updates will be made available as more information is gathered. For breaking news alerts, readers can download the news app on their smartphones or tablets or follow @BBCBreaking on X for real-time updates.
