Powerful 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Chile, Tsunami Sirens Sounding in Hawaii as Wave Nears

Powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake hits offshore Maule, Chile, death toll at 122 and rising.

 URGENT: Chile has been hit by a catasthropic earthquake measuring 8.8 on the Richter Scale. There is going to widespread devastation and loss of life. Tsunami sirens are sounding in Hawaii. This is the most powerful earthquake to hit Chile in half a century. There have been conflicting reports about the death toll, with some placing it so far as high as 122. The quake struck offshore Maule, Chile at a depth of 21.7 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake was only three miles from shore.

According to Fox News, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's tsunami warning monitors reported a wave measuring nearly eight feet hit near Talcahuano, Chile, about 90 minutes after the quake hit. Other waves of up to four feet hit other coastal areas. The NOAA has placed its alert on the highest level — severe.

The U.S. Geological Survey said a  number of aftershocks continue to hit Chile, the largest one registering at magnitude 6.9. There have been reports of a tidal wave that destroyed many buildings. The information coming in is very fluid.

Guatemala, Panama and Costa Rica also affected. The west coast of the United States and Canada are under a tsunami advisory.

More details to follow......