massive 7.3 magnitude earthquake jolts Argentina

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale shook Argentina early Thursday morning, sparking widespread panic across several cities and towns. The epicenter was reported in the northwestern province of Santiago del Estero, near the border with Chile, at a depth of around 600 kilometers below the Earth's surface.

• Magnitude: 7.3 on the Richter scale

• Epicenter: Santiago del Estero, northwestern Argentina

• Depth: Approx. 600 kilometers (deep-focus quake)

• Time: 3:27 AM (local time)

• Aftershocks: Light tremors reported in neighboring regions

• Casualties/Damage: No major loss of life or property confirmed so far

• Response: Emergency protocols activated, seismic teams deployed

Despite its deep epicenter, due to its large magnitude, the earthquake was widely felt across Argentina and even parts of South America.

• Argentina: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Rosario, Mendoza, Salta, Tucumán

• Chile: Northern and central regions

• Paraguay: Asunción and nearby areas

• Bolivia: Southern regions

Citizens reported buildings swaying, windows rattling, and household items shifting. Videos circulating on social media show people evacuating buildings and standing in open spaces in the early morning hours.

As the tremors hit during the early morning hours, most people were asleep. The sudden shaking caused panic among residents.

• Many rushed out of their homes, barefoot and confused.

• Apartment dwellers in high-rise buildings reported feeling the tremors more intensely.

• Parents gathered their children and headed for open areas and parks.

• Some residents feared a tsunami, but no alert was issued by authorities due to the quake’s inland and deep epicenter.

“I was in bed when everything started shaking. My windows rattled, and I ran out immediately. It lasted less than a minute, but it felt like forever,” said Maria Gonzalez, a resident of Córdoba.

Though a 7.3 magnitude earthquake is classified as major, the reason there’s minimal surface damage is its depth. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Argentina’s National Institute for Seismic Prevention (INPRES):

• The earthquake occurred at a depth of 600 km (deep-focus earthquake).

• Deep-focus quakes tend to cause less destruction on the surface compared to shallow ones.

• The energy dissipates before reaching the surface, though it can still be felt over large distances.

Within minutes of the tremor, hashtags like #ArgentinaEarthquake, #Earthquake2025, and #SantiagoDelEstero started trending on Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok.

Users shared:

• CCTV footage of shaking buildings.

• Personal experiences and prayers for safety.

• Memes and GIFs expressing fear and relief.

Emergency helplines and safety tips were also circulated online, with authorities urging people to stay calm but vigilant.

Argentina’s Civil Defense Department and local governments were quick to respond, confirming the tremor and issuing updates.

• Seismic monitoring teams were dispatched to the epicenter region.

• Hospitals and emergency services were put on high alert.

• Helicopter surveillance over vulnerable areas began within hours.

• The public was advised to check for gas leaks, damaged pipelines, and avoid elevators.

So far, no significant injuries or deaths have been reported, although some rural areas are still being assessed for potential damage.

Seismologists have weighed in on the situation, offering reassurance while also urging preparedness.

• Deep earthquakes are less damaging, but still a reminder of the region's seismic activity.

• No immediate aftershocks of large magnitude are expected, though mild tremors may continue.

• Argentina lies near the Nazca and South American tectonic plates, a known seismic hotspot.

“This event is significant due to its magnitude and depth. While the impact was minimal, it reminds us to always be prepared,” said Dr. Luis Herrera, a leading seismologist in Argentina.

While today's earthquake did not cause catastrophic damage, it is a reminder of nature’s unpredictable power. Preparedness, awareness, and quick response can save lives.