Coastal areas of Chile are on high alert after an 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Drake Passage, the body of water connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) in Hawaii, the quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), triggering a potential risk of hazardous tsunami waves within the next three hours along parts of the Chilean coastline.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable coastal regions to remain vigilant and follow official instructions for safety. The PTWC warned that the situation remains dynamic and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

This seismic event follows a recent powerful earthquake in Russia’s Far East, which set off tsunami waves across the Pacific, prompting alerts in Japan, the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. While Russia experienced waves as high as 4 meters, overall damage was minimal.