U.S. Embassy statement on Chile 8.8 Earthquake, Google People Finder

U.S. Embassy statement on Chile 8.8 Earthquake, Google People Finder

At least 15 aftershocks have surfaced following a devastating 8.8 earthquake that ripped through the coast of Chile this morning. As victims deal with the aftermath, friends and loved ones across the world are concerned for those who remain in Chile. The U.S. Embassy released a statement and stated that they are working with U.S. citizens to help locate loved ones. The following statement includes phone number and contact resources to help with the search.

Google has provided a Chile Earthquake Person Finder where citizens can search for information on loved ones as well.
 

Embassy Statement on February 27 Earthquake in Chile
As of 11:30 a.m., February 27, EST

On Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 3:34 a.m. local time, an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 on the Richter Scale was recorded off the central Chilean coast.  The epicenter was approximately 70 miles northeast of the city of Concepcion, about 200 miles south of Santiago. 

Strong tremors were felt throughout Chile, including Santiago.  For more technical information on the earthquake, please see the United States Geological Survey website: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eqinthenews/2010/us2010tfan/

Chile is a one of the most seismically active countries in the world – earthquakes here are not uncommon.  Building construction standards reflect that, but damage is being reported – ranging from light to moderate in Santiago to more severe structural damage closer to the epicenter.

The U.S. Embassy in Santiago is working actively to ascertain the whereabouts of U.S. citizens, both official and unofficial -- through our warden network -- and local Embassy staff.  No Embassy casualties have been reported at this time.  American citizens in the United States seeking information on whereabouts of U.S citizens in Chile may call the U.S. State Department in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747.  American citizens in Chile may call 56-2-330-3476.

We have reached out to the Government of Chile and stand ready to provide assistance as requested. 

We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the people and residents of Chile who are confronted with this disaster. 

For the latest U.S. State Department information see:  http://www.state.gov/headlines/137379.htm

To use the Chile Earthquake Person Finder function directly, see:
http://chilepersonfinder.appspot.com/