Drake Passage Quake Sends Tremors Across Southern Ocean
On Friday, the drake passage quake shook the seas between South America and Antarctica, yet damage was minimal.
Drake Passage Quake: 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Remote Ocean Region
The earthquake was recorded at 7.5 magnitude with its center located nearly 700 kilometers southeast of Ushuaia, Argentina. Experts from global monitoring centers said the tremor happened at a shallow depth of just 11 kilometers below the seabed, which often makes the shaking more intense.
Following the tremor, Chile’s agencies briefly advised of tsunami risks in Antarctic zones. However, this was withdrawn within hours once further analysis confirmed that no dangerous waves had formed. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center also cleared other coastlines, stating that there was no wider threat to nearby nations.
Because the Drake Passage is a remote oceanic stretch, there were no reports of injuries or property damage. This zone is mainly known for rough seas and icy winds rather than human activity, making the impact of such a quake minimal compared to one near populated cities.
Seismologists note that while the drake passage quake did not lead to destruction, it highlights the constant movement of tectonic plates in the region. Although not as active as the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the southern ocean floor still experiences occasional powerful tremors.
Events like this remind us of the importance of early warning systems, which allow authorities to alert communities quickly and then update them as more data becomes available. Even though Friday’s quake did not harm people, it serves as a clear example of nature’s unpredictability.
