A tsunami warning remains in force for all lowlying coastal areas of Fiji.

According to Fiji’s Joint National Tsunami Warning Centre, people need to be prepared after the tsunami warning was issued earlier today by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre after the 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile last night.

Nadi Weather Office Director Rajendra Prasad said although the estimated arrival time of the wave activity has passed, people still need to be on high ground.

Prasad also confirmed that a tsunami has been generated and is heading towards the Pacific region.

This is based on the evaluation provided by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre.

DISMAC Director Pajiliai Dobui said they are still monitoring the reports of wave activity in a number of countries including Hawaii, French Polynesia, American Samoa, Samoa and New Zealand.

The first waves of a tsunami have hit the Big Island of Hawaii, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

The increasing wave heights began shortly around 11:15am local time, more than five hours after alarms sounded to warn of a tsunami by the Chile earthquake last night, which killed at least 147 people.

The tsunami caused by the earthquake in Chile has hit the Marquesas Islands in the north of French Polynesia with waves up to four meters high.

A scientist has told RFO radio in Papeete that the difference between the lowest and high watermark in Hiva Oa has been measured at four meters.

Residents reported at least four big waves pushing in and the sea again retreating.

The waves are reported to have been strengthening.

People living in Vanua Levu, Viti Levu, the Lau Group, the Lomaiviti Group and other areas have taken the necessary precautions.

They are hoping for the best, hoping that Fiji is spared again.

We are hoping that the worst in the generation of the tsunami wave activity is over as according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre, local authorities can make the decision for their country if wave activity has not been generated or is not significant after two hours pass following the estimated arrival time of the tsunami.