Shallow M7.5 earthquake hits southern Drake Passage
A very strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M7.5 hit southern Drake Passage at 02:16 UTC on August 22, 2025. The agency is reporting a depth of 10.8 km (6.7 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth.
Epicenter of the M7.5 earthquake in the southern Drake Passage on August 22, 2025. Credit: TW/SAM, Google
The epicenter was located 707 km (440 miles) SSE of Tolhuin, Argentina and 955 km (594 miles) SE of Punta Arenas, Chile.
People along coastal areas near the earthquake should be observant and exercise normal caution. Otherwise, no action is required, the NWS Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said.
The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are adobe block and rubble/field stone masonry construction.
The quake was followed by M5.1 at 03:17 UTC on August 22.
Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking
Regional seismicity
References:
1 M7.5 earthquake Drake Passage – USGS – August 22, 2025
2 M7.5 earthquake Drake Passage – EMSC – August 22, 2025
I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.