1960 Valdivia Earthquake: A Historic Disaster

The biggest earthquake ever recorded was the 1960 Valdivia Earthquake in Chile. The quake lasted

about 10 minutes and triggered massive tsunamis that crossed the Pacific Ocean, hitting Hawaii,

Japan, the Philippines, and even Alaska. Waves reached up to 82 feet (25 meters)

in some areas. An estimated 1,600–6,000 people died, over 2 million were displaced,

and entire cities were destroyed. The event permanently altered Chile’s coastline and reshaped

how scientists understand plate tectonics and megathrust earthquakes. Follow to learn more.