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[Nicole]

A powerful 8.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Chile on Saturday morning, sparking tsunami warnings along the coast of South America.

The US Geological Survey reported the large earthquake hit offshore from Maule, Chile.

In the Chilean capital Santiago, north of the epicentre, there were reports of buildings shaking and blackouts. The earthquake struck 56 miles northeast of Concepcíon at a depth of 34 miles.

It was initially reported at a magnitude of 8.3, reportedly lasting for 10 to 30 seconds. Geologists described the earthquake as "very big" and 80 times bigger than the earthquake that hit Haiti earlier this year. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

The US Pacific Tsunami warning centre issued a tsunami warning for Chile and Peru, and a tsunami watch for Ecuador. It said it was not yet known if a tsunami had been caused but "an earthquake of this size has the potential to generate a destructive tsunami that can strike coastlines within hours."

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[Admin]

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"Tsunami waves have been observed on the coast of Chile that may threaten Australia," the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) said. The BoM said tsunami waves could start affecting Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands after 8:30am (AEDT) on Sunday.

NSW could be hit after 8:45am (AEDT) on Sunday while Queensland could be hit after 8:15am (AEST)

  

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A 20cm tsunami generated by a huge earthquake in Chile hit New Zealand's eastern Chatham Islands early this morning and officials warned that bigger waves were to follow.

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People on Australia's east coast are being warned to stay away from beaches this morning after warnings of a possible tsunami.

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[Admin]