Massive 8.8 Earthquake Rocks Chile

Early this morning, a deadly 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked central Chile. So far it has been reported that more than 150 people are dead (this is and update from the video below), and this number is expected to rise significantly over the next 24 hours.

The massive earthquake also triggered a gargantuan tsunami that now threatens more than fifty countries. Hawaii has already begun implementing plans to evacuate the Island State.

The quake struck early in the morning hours, about 3:20 a.m., and it was unquestionably stronger them the 7.0-magnitude quake that shook Haiti last month.

The United States, along with numerous other countries, have prepared disaster response teams and are currently waiting for assistance requests from Chile before they’re to be deployed.

Authorities are trying to remain optimistic, but with much of the country lying under rubble, it is difficult to know how this tragedy is going to play out over the next few days.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Chilean people and their families.  Anyone interested in making an immediate contribution toward the relief effort can visit the American Red Cross website.

Source information for this story was provided by the following:

New York Times

Washington Post

Photograph provided by Sebastian Martinez, AP