Massive second earthquake hits Chile triggering landslides and president's evacuation

A 7.6-magnitude earthquake in Chile has resulted to landslides with the Chilean president among those affected.

16:43 03 April 2014

A day after Chile was struck by a deadly 8.2-magnitude earthquake, the country once again experienced a powerful earthquake. 

 

The 7.6-magnitude quake rattled buildings and triggered landslides. 

 

Following the issuance of a tsunami alert, a new round of evacuations was ordered. 

 

2,500 homes in the port town of Iquique were damaged along with several fishing boats. 

 

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, who travelled to nearby Arica to see how the city had been affected was forced to leave for her own safety. In a tweet, she said: "I was evacuated like all citizens. One can see that the people are prepared."

 

So far, the authorities confirm six deaths. However, the number is expected to rise as teams are searching older buildings in remote areas. 

 

Meanwhile, schools in northern Chile remained closed amid fears of more aftershocks. 

 

Tuesday's quake was located 14 miles south of Iquique at a depth of about 25 miles.