The United States Geological Survey says that an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.7, has struck 225 kilometers southwest of Puerto Montt in southern Chile. The US-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the Chilean navy have both issued tsunami alerts.

People walk on Highway 5 after an earthquake in Chiloe province, Chile, on Dec. 25, 2016. A 7.6-magnitude earthquake rattled southern Chile on Sunday, sparking fears of a tsunami, and causing no casualties. (Xinhua/AGENCIAUNO/Claudio Yanez)

Chilean officials have called for coastal areas near the earthquake's epicenter to be evacuated. The emergency office said the first tidal waves are expected to hit the shore at around 1 pm local time. So far, no deaths, injuries damage has been reported.