At least 76 dead after massive 8.8 quake in Chile; Pacific-wide tsunami warning issued issued(Updating Death Toll)

February 27th, 2010 - 6:37 pm ICT by BNO News  

SANTIAGO, CHILE (BNO NEWS) — A massive earthquake struck near Concepcion, Chile on Saturday, seismologists said, causing at least 76 deaths, and a Pacific-wide tsunami warning.

The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 8.8, was centered about 60 miles northwest of Chillan and 200 miles southwest of Santiago, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It struck at a depth of 21.7 miles at 03.34 a.m. local time.

A tsunami warning was issued for the entire Pacific Ocean, even as far away as Japan, according to the Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

A tsunami advisory was issued for the U.S. Pacific Coast, according to the West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center.

The capital, Santiago, was without power and phone lines four hours after the earthquake. Reports say there are several buildings damaged in Greater Santiago and many damage near the epicenter.

Santiago’s International Airport was closed and many flights were diverted to Mendoza in Argentina.

Chilean emergency services reported at least 76 people dead after the earthquake. Chilean state TV reported many injured. Bachelet said the government is working and trying to restore the communications.

The 2010 Chile earthquake is the second largest quake in the past 20 years, behind the 2004 Indian Ocean 9.1-magnitude quake.

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