The magnitude 8.8 earthquake that struck Chile early Saturday morning has caused various areas throughout the Pacific to issue tsunami warnings, with Hawaii expecting 3-to-8 foot tsunami waves racing towards the island at the speed of 500kph.
Hawaiian authorities are mobilizing to evacuate around 100,00 residents and tourists from low-lying coastal areas.
Hawaiian radio stations have reportedly been broadcasting civil defense alerts.
Computer generated models are predicting “very rough waves” from 6 to 10 feet high by the time the tsunami hits Hawaii at about 11a.m. local time.
Hawaii could face its largest waves since 1964, according to Charles McCreery, director of the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
“Urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property,” the Warning Center said in a bulletin. “All shores are at risk no matter which direction they face.”
The earthquake, which struck at 3:34 a.m. off the Pacific coast, caused severe damage to airports, hospitals, bridges and buildings. The confirmed death toll in Chile has reached 147.
Related news articles:
