Chile earthquake: 5 dead, tsunami hits northern coast

A powerful 8.2-magnitude earthquake has struck off the northwestern coast of Chile, setting off a small tsunami and prompting evacuations along Latin America’s Pacific coastline.

The U.S. Geological Survey says the earthquake was centered about 100 kilometers northwest of Iquique Tuesday evening. It was followed by several aftershocks, including one measuring 6.2-magnitude.

A tsunami warning was issued for the coasts of Chile, Peru and Ecuador, while high-wave watches were posted for residents of coastal Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said.

Waves about 6 feet high hit cities along the northern coast, the Associated Press reported. There were no immediate reports of possible damage or casualties.

NOAA added that Hawaii could be put on warning or watch status as the quake and tsunami are evaluated. The earliest that waves might reach the island would be about 3:25 a.m. Wednesday (9:25 a.m. ET).

Agencies/Canadajournal