Drake Passage earthquake sparks tsunami concerns; NWS reassures Caribbean islands

A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica, raising initial tsunami concerns for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no threat to the Caribbean. Authorities continue monitoring aftershocks, highlighting the region’s ongoing vulnerability to seismic and oceanic events.

A powerful earthquake struck the Drake Passage on Thursday, prompting initial concerns about potential tsunami threats in the Caribbean. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake measured 7.5 magnitude and occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers beneath the ocean floor.

The Drake Passage lies between the southern tip of South America and Antarctica, a region notorious for extreme weather and turbulent seas. Given the magnitude of the tremor, the National Tsunami Warning Center quickly assessed the situation to determine if coastal areas could be at risk.

Authorities confirmed there was no immediate danger to Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, or surrounding regions. The agency stated on its official website that no tsunami warning, advisory, or watch had been issued following the seismic activity.

The quake comes just months after a similar 7.4 magnitude earthquake near Chile’s southern coast in May, which triggered widespread evacuation orders. Chilean President Gabriel Boric at the time urged residents to follow safety protocols, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to seismic and oceanic hazards.

The Drake Passage itself has a history of dramatic natural events. Earlier this year, footage of a 40-foot wave striking a luxury vessel in the area went viral, showing the extreme conditions travelers can face while crossing one of the world’s roughest waterways.

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While Thursday’s earthquake raised alarms, experts say the absence of a tsunami warning should reassure coastal communities across the Americas. Nonetheless, seismic monitoring agencies continue to track aftershocks and assess risks, reminding residents to remain alert in case of sudden changes.