A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off the coast of central Chile has created a tsunami alert for neighboring countries, but U.S. authorities say no tsunami threat exists for the American west coast, but Hawaii and much of the Pacific remains under a tsunami warning.

The quake is the world’s sixth largest on record since 1900, and has so far been responsible for 47 reported deaths and a 9-foot tsunami in the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning for Peru and Chile, with a tsunami watch for Costa Rica, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, and Antarctica. Tsunami warnings have also been issued for other areas in the Pacific as well, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Russia, the Philippines, and many other Pacific islands.

In the Unites States, the National Weather Service’s (NWS) West Coast – Alaska Tsunami Center issued a statement that should calm any fears for residents of North America.

“A strong earthquake has occurred but a tsunami is not expected along the California/Oregon/Washington/British Columbia or Alaska coasts. No warning … no watch and no advisory is in effect for these areas.”

Hawaii's tsunami threat, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, includes all coastlines of all islands in the state.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet confirmed the 47 dead and asked the public to remain calm as rescues commence and damage is further assessed at sunrise.

"With a quake of this size we undoubtedly can't rule out more deaths and probably injuries," she said to Reuters.