Terrifying earthquake in Chile

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck northern Chile last night, injuring many people, destroying hundreds of houses and causing power outages in the area.

Authorities said the epicenter of the earthquake was in Quillahua village, about 1,250km south of Sangiago. On the far side of the continent - the city of Sao Paolo, Brazil - one can also feel its power. The earthquake that lasted for about 50 seconds caused many panicers to run to the street. At least 2 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the city of Tocopilla.

Vice Minister of Chile's Interior Ministry Felipe Harboe said on television that " one of the areas most heavily affected is Tocopilla ".

At least 1,200 houses in the city have been destroyed, causing 4,000 people to fall into the sky, according to Mayor Tocopilla, Luis Moyano."Tonight, Tocopilla people will have to sleep on the streets."

Tunnel collapsed

At least 50 others got stuck when the Galleguillos tunnel collapsed, Navy captain Ignacio Rojas told reporters. News website of La Tercera of Chile said, about 20 people were injured in Maria Elena, a small town east of Tocopilla. In the town of Antofagasta, the television picture shows many cars crushed under concrete slabs from a hotel.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet will visit the region today and the government has sent planes to bring aid to affected areas.

According to Reuters , two hours after the disaster, the region suffered another 5.7 magnitude earthquake.

Thanh Hao (General) - Photos: Reuters, AP