Massive earthquake strikes Chile

A massive earthquake of 8.3 magnitude has struck central Chile.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake struck at 0634 GMT on Saturday about 317km (197 miles) south-west of the capital, Santiago.

The USGS said the earthquake hit at a depth of about 59.4km. There is no information yet on any casualties or damage.

The US government said a tsunami warning has been issued for Chile, Peru and Ecuador.

Buildings in Santiago were reported to have shaken for between 10 and 30 seconds, with the loss of electricity in some parts of the capital.

The USGS said: "An earthquake of this size has the potential to generate a destructive tsunami that can strike coastlines near the epicentre within minutes and more distant coastlines within hours." - BBC