The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami alert for parts of the pacific ocean after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake hit off the coast of southern Chile Sunday, 40 km (about 25 miles) southwest of Puerto Quellon, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
A “state of precaution” has also been lifted, as per the Chilean Navy Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service. Soon after the quake, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet expressed support to the people of her country.
“Much strength and mood to the compatriots affected by the earthquake in Chile and other areas of the south! Emergency protocols are already operating,” Bachelet tweeted.
Circling the pacific ocean known as the “Ring of Fire,” Chile is placed on an arc of volcanoes and fault lines. The vicinity sees frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Since 1973, Chile has had over a dozen quakes of magnitude 7.0 and above.
An 8.8 magnitude earthquake killed over 700 people in February 2010. The incident affected more than 2 million others, according to Chilean officials.
Along with the city of Concepcion, Chile, the Maule and Bio regions were troubled with buildings ruined and roads blocked. Over 1.5 million people were left without power in and around Santiago immediately after the quake.
