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Pacific tsunami alert after earthquake

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A tsunami alert was issued for Pacific-facing countries in South America following a large earthquake off the coast of northern Chile.


The 8.2 magnitude quake killed at least five people, triggering the tsunami alert across multiple countries in South America.


The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued an initial warning for Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Panama.


All warnings, watches and alerts were later lifted except for Chile and Peru.


Ecuador also reduced its alert but maintained a high level of vigilance for the Galapagos Islands.


The US Geological Survey said the quake struck at 8.46pm local time about 52 miles northwest of the mining area of Iquique.


Waves of up to 6ft hit some areas in Chile, and there have been power cuts, fires and landslides.


Tens of thousands of people were evacuated in affected areas, where a state of emergency was declared.


Iquique governor Gonzalo Prieto told local media that in addition to those killed, several people had been seriously injured.


The quake shook modern buildings in Peru and in Bolivia’s high altitude capital of La Paz – more than 290 miles from Iquique.


At least eight strong aftershocks followed in the few hours after the quake, including a 6.2 tremor.


The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “We are aware of reports of an earthquake off the northern coast of Chile. We are in contact with the national emergency services in Chile.


“If you are a British National affected by this incident you should monitor local media and follow instructions from the local authorities.”

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