World News. A massive earthquake of magnitude 8.8 has struck off the coast of Chile, sparking Pacific-wide tsunami alerts.

The death toll in Chile is unconfirmed but already reaching many hundreds. Inhabitants of low-lying areas across Pacific islands/nations, including Japan, Russia, Taiwan and Hawaii, have been advised to seek higher ground until the tsunami alert is lifted.  Sirens are already sounding in Hawaii warning of a possible approaching tsunami.

The 8.8 magnitude earthquake is approximately 500 times stronger than that experienced by Haiti recently.  Many areas are still being hit by powerful aftershocks which continue to destabilize buildings and cause casualties.  More reports to follow.