Earthquake hits Chile

A 7.1magnitude earthquake yesterday struck the central coastal area of Chile, some 70 kilometres or 45 miles northwest of Temuco.



The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake, which stuck around 5.20 p.m. on Sunday, was felt as far away as Santiago, which is about 595 kilometres or 370 miles north of the epicentre.



There were no immediate reports of major damage or injury.



Chile's national emergency office says the earthquake had cut some telephone and electricity lines.



In February last year, an 8.8-magnitude quake hit Chile near the nation's second largest city, Concepcion, killing hundreds.