Powerful quake hits off coast of Chile, tsunami watch issued

People leave a supermarket during a strong quake in Santiago on Sept 16, 2015. A magnitude 8.3 earthquake hit off the coast of Chile on Wednesday, shaking buildings in the capital city of Santiago and generating a tsunami warning for Chile, Peru and Hawaii. 

PHOTO: AFP

SEP 17, 20157:47 AM

[SANTIAGO] A magnitude 8.3 earthquake hit off the coast of Chile on Wednesday, shaking buildings in the capital city of Santiago and generating a tsunami warning for Chile, Peru and Hawaii.

The quake struck 104 miles (167 km) north of Valparaiso and was originally reported as magnitude 7.9, the US Geological Survey said.

Hazardous tsunami waves from the quake were possible along the coasts of Chile and Peru within the next several hours, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said. A tsunami warning was also issued for Hawaii.

The quake struck at a depth of 7.8 miles (12.6 km), the USGS said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

REUTERS