Millions evacuated following 8.3 magnitude earthquake

Millions of people in Chile have been evacuated from their homes following an 8.3 magnitude earthquake

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by Fiona Day |
Published on

A massive earthquake has hit South American country Chile, triggering Tsunami warnings around the world.

Mexico, Ecuador, New Zealand, Hawaii and California remain on alert following the huge 8.3 magnitude quake.

The earthquake struck at approximately 19:54 local time (22:54 here in the UK) causing buildings to become unstable.

As a result over a million people have been forced to flee their homes with scientists now warning of aftershocks.

The earthquake was felt up and down the South American country (stock image)
The earthquake was felt up and down the South American country (stock image)

According to reports, 5 people have been killed as a result of the quake which was felt as far away as Argentina.

Jeannette Matte, who lives in Santiago, told the BBC: "The motion began lightly, then stronger and stronger.

"We were on the 12th floor and we were very afraid because it was not stopping. First it was from side to side, then it was like little jumps."

Thousands of people are currently travelling to the coast of the country to celebrate Chile’s upcoming Independence Day.

Chile’s latest earthquake comes 4 years after an 8.8 magnitude quake hit the country in 2010. It left parts of the country devastated, taking the lives of over 500 people.

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