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. [Photo/Xinhua]

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.