A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck southern Chile on Christmas Day, prompting a tsunami alert that led to the evacuation of around 4,000 people. The quake hit 140 miles southwest of Puerto Montt, with no immediate reports of casualties.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of hazardous waves up to 1,000km from the epicentre, but the alert was lifted approximately 90 minutes later. Chile's national emergency office ordered evacuations in coastal areas of the Los Lagos region.
President Michelle Bachelet expressed solidarity on Twitter, stating: 'Much strength and encouragement to the compatriots affected by the tremor in Chile and other areas in the south. Emergency procedures are already in place.' The quake was felt as far as Bariloche in southwest Argentina.
Local taxi driver Luis Ramirez described the experience: 'I'm 48 years old and I've never felt anything so strong.' He reported that cars with loudspeakers urged residents to evacuate beach areas. Chile, located on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' is highly seismically active, having suffered major quakes in 2010 and 2015.
